Despite government regulations capping the prices for dengue tests at Rs 250-300, several private laboratories in Bengaluru have been found charging significantly higher rates. Investigations reveal that labs across various locations including Malleswaram, Sanjaynagar, JP Nagar, Indiranagar, HSR Layout, Koramangala, and Yelahanka are quoting prices ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 1,300 for Rapid Tests, well above the mandated Rs 250 limit. For the ELISA test, which is capped at Rs 300, labs are charging between Rs 1,200 to Rs 3,000 per test.
The issue has persisted despite actions taken by the health department against 22 laboratories for violating the price caps. When contacted, a major diagnostic center affiliated with a hospital chain disclosed prices exceeding the government-mandated caps. For instance, in JP Nagar, they quoted Rs 1,140 for the ELISA NS1 test and Rs 1,797 for the combined ELISA test covering both NS1 and IgM. At another branch, located in Malleshwaram, they quoted Rs 3,040 for a dengue profile test, which is significantly higher than the capped prices.
Responding to queries about the inflated prices, laboratories cited standard charges and explained that additional fees, such as for home sample collection, may apply. Some labs disclosed charges of Rs 250-400 for additional tests like Complete Blood Count, which are crucial for monitoring platelet and white blood cell levels during dengue infections.
In specific instances, a laboratory chain in Sanjaynagar quoted Rs 900 for the ELISA NS1 test, while a health lab in HSR Layout charged Rs 1,500 for the same test.
Authorities urge individuals encountering labs charging exorbitant rates for essential dengue tests to report such incidents to the district health officer for appropriate action.
