Amid a seasonal surge in vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya, the Maharashtra government has once again capped the price of the dengue ELISA test at ₹600. The health department issued fresh directives to all private hospitals and diagnostic laboratories, mandating compliance with this pricing during the monsoon period.
Cap in Place Since 2016 to Ensure Affordability
This price cap, originally introduced in 2016 after Delhi pioneered the move in 2015, aims to make essential diagnostic tests more accessible. However, despite repeated orders, many private labs continue to overcharge patients—demanding between ₹800 and ₹1,100 per test. Such practices often deter individuals from seeking timely and proper medical evaluation.
PMC Urges Public to Report Overcharging
As reported by TOI, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has urged residents to report any labs or hospitals charging above the prescribed amount. Dr. Nina Borade, Chief Health Officer, confirmed that PMC has already issued a notification to all registered healthcare providers to comply with the ₹600 cap. She added, “We encourage citizens to lodge complaints via email at health@punecorporation.org or call 020-25501215 if they are overcharged.”
Strict Guidelines Against Rapid Diagnostic Kits
Dr. Sandeep Sangale, Joint Director of Health Services, reiterated that the government had directed all private labs and hospitals to conduct only NS1 ELISA and MAC ELISA tests for dengue—explicitly banning the use of rapid diagnostic kits. “This is to prevent patient exploitation and ensure diagnostic accuracy. We’ve sent circulars to all district health officials, civic bodies, and zilla parishads,” he said.
IMA Acknowledges Compliance but Voices Concern
While most private institutions are adhering to the government’s directive, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed reservations. Dr. Sanjay Patil, Chairperson of the Hospital Board of India (IMA, Pune chapter), stated, “Although hospitals are currently complying due to the high incidence of dengue, there is unrest over the capped pricing, which has not been revised since 2016. The feasibility of diagnostic test costs depends on materials used and facility infrastructure.”
Dengue and Chikungunya Cases on the Rise
As per recent data, the state has already surpassed dengue case numbers recorded in the first six months of 2024. Pune alone has reported 169 suspected and 8 confirmed dengue cases this year, with 62 suspected and two confirmed cases recorded in May and June (till the 18th). Additionally, the city has seen eight chikungunya cases.
Government Prioritizes Public Health Amid Monsoon Surge
With early monsoon showers triggering a spike in vector-borne infections, the state government’s price regulation aims to safeguard public health. Ensuring that dengue test remains affordable is a critical step toward early detection and timely treatment, ultimately helping to control the spread of these seasonal diseases.