The new rates fixed by the government are Rs 2500
The Gujarat government has reduced the rates for COVID-19 tests conducted at private laboratories from Rs 4,000 to Rs 2,500.
Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said government- authorised private laboratories will now charge Rs 2,500 instead of the present cost of Rs 4,000 for COVID-19 tests.
“If a person visits the lab with a doctor’s prescription, then he or she will have to pay Rs 2,500. The charges will be Rs 3,000 if a laboratory assistant is called home to collect samples,” Patel said, adding that the new fee structure will come into effect immediately.
Moreover, private laboratories will lose their licenses if they charge more than the stipulated fee, he said.
Although COVID-19 testing in government-run facilities was free, around 500 persons choose to go to private labs every day, said Patel, who also holds the health portfolio.