Hospitals overcharge for dengue tests

With a spurt in the number of dengue cases in the city, the central government has decided to continue with the cap of Rs 600 for the test to diagnose the vector-borne disease and Rs 50 for ascertaining the platelet count in all private hospitals in different states and cities. Many such private hospitals and laboratories, however, continue to overcharge patients for these tests.

The Centre has issued an advisory to all the states to cap the cost of dengue diagnostic tests in private hospitals at Rs 600, the Lok Sabha was told on Friday.

However, all major laboratories and private hospitals have been charging in excess Rs 800 and, in some cases, even Rs 1,700 for the dengue NS1 Elisa test.

“The rapid card test was recently mandated by the government. This advisory was not updated with us. We ran the Elisa test, which is conclusive for dengue, accounting for the difference in the cost of the two. As this can be the result of a miscommunication, we are yet to form a definite idea on it .We would like to emphasise that our action to conduct the Elisa test was in the best interests of the patient,” said an official spokesperson of Fortis laboratory.

The government, in a statement, warned private hospitals and laboratories against overcharging for dengue tests.

According to a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation report, 154 cases of dengue have been reported till the first week of August.

“All medical and paramedical staff have been sensitised regarding the prevention and management of dengue. Dedicated dengue beds and tests in civic-run hospitals are minimal in number. We have set up a specialised team to tackle dengue cases,” said Dr Avinash Supe, dean, KEM hospital.