MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has pulled out its online self-assessment tool on the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection over concerns that it was “reporting inaccurate findings” that might give people “a false sense of security.”
In a radio interview on Tuesday night, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the FightCovid app was developed in partnership with volunteer doctors who interpreted their guidelines for COVID-19 assessment and management.
“It’s a tool meant to reduce overcrowding in hospitals, clinics and health centers. By accomplishing the self-assessment survey, you’re doing your part in making sure high-priority patients get the care they need and front-line workers don’t work any more than necessary in this time of health emergency,” Vergeire added. While adjustments are being made on the app to ensure its accuracy, infectious disease expert Edsel Salvana said that people could instead call the DOH hotline for questions.
The DOH earlier said that persons who suspect that they might have COVID-19 or need assistance over possible exposure to a known case, can call their emergency hotlines 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) and 1555.
The 02-894-COVID hotline is free 24/7, while the 1555 hotline is free for Smart and PLDT subscribers.