Dengue tests in Bengaluru remain costly despite government cap

Despite the government capping dengue test rates in Bengaluru, many health centres are still overcharging, risking public health. While the prescribed rates are Rs 250 for rapid tests and Rs 300 for ELISA tests, some centres are charging up to 15 times more.

Metrolife conducted a survey and discovered that out of 25 medical establishments contacted, only a few were adhering to the government-prescribed rates for dengue tests. Most centres were charging exorbitant prices, ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 4,750.

Even multi-speciality hospitals were found to be overcharging, with one hospital charging 15 times the capped rate for ELISA tests. However, there were some exceptions, like a hospital in Sampangiram Nagar, that was following the mandated price limits.