Can I Undergo Free Covid-19 Test in India?

The novel coronavirus has made life tough for every individual. While some are still free from the wrath of the deadly virus, many are struggling with their coronavirus symptoms. The government of India is taking every possible measure, right from providing health insurance for coronavirus to making quick arrangements of vaccines to make sure the citizens feel safe and cared for during the pandemic.

The IRDAI has made it a compulsion for every health insurance company to cover Covid-19 hospitalization expenses and the cost of treatments incurred. As a matter of fact, the Indian government has made testing for the novel coronavirus free in government hospitals and laboratories.

That being said, the question arises, “Can anyone undergo the coronavirus test for free?”. If you too have been thinking the same, here is the answer.

Are You Eligible for Free Covid-19 Test in India?

Whether or not you can undergo a free test for coronavirus is something that a few aspects will decide. Below mentioned are the categories that can avail free coronavirus test in India:

• Patients who are hospitalized.
• Patients who are having symptoms in facilities for long-term care.
• Patients who belong to the age group 60 years and above.
• Patients with underlying conditions and having symptoms.
• People who came in contact with affected individuals and now showing symptoms.
• People who have returned from foreign trips and showing symptoms.
• People under high-risk categories like pregnant women, seniors, chronic illness patients.
• People with disabilities or special needs.
• People from Emirates and their domestic help, irrespective of whether they have symptoms or not.
• Indian residents with signs or symptoms of Covid.

What to Do if You Are Showing Novel Coronavirus Symptoms?

If you feel, you are having symptoms of Covid-19, you can:

• Call the Indian Covid-19 helpline number +91-11-23978046 or 1075 to receive the desired support.
• Report whatever signs or symptoms you are experiencing to see whether or not you are eligible for a test. In case, you are found eligible, you will be tested at a government-approved lab.
• Avail test for coronavirus in a lab approved by the Indian government.

Important Things to Remember

Here are a few significant things for you to keep in mind:

• The free testing of the novel coronavirus is only permitted at government-approved laboratories.
• If you want to get yourself tested for Covid-19 at a private lab or hospital, you will have to pay the costs.
• The price of the Covid-19 test at a private lab or hospital is Rs. 4,5000. While the first test costs Rs. 1,500, the price of the second test is Rs. 3,000.
• It is possible to avail of free coronavirus testing under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. To avail of free test under PMJAY, one must test positive for coronavirus and be admitted under one of the network hospitals by showing the PMJAY e-card.

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At Last

If you are noticing signs of coronavirus, it is better not to wait and get tested. Remember, early detection can not only save a life but also prevent the infection from spreading to your lungs and making the whole situation worse. Furthermore, make sure you maintain a proper distance from others in your family. Do not forget, prevention is better than cure.

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.