Is Covid-19 Swab Testing Free in India?

Though the world has started to return to normalcy, the virus has not yet been completely eradicated. Different variants have been emerging, making it even more difficult to get back to the normal pace at which everything used to operate previously. 

While the travel ban has been lifted, it is mandatory for those travelling between states to get tested as a precautionary measure. There are mainly three types of tests in India - RT-PCR, antigen, and antibody, respectively. 

Antigen, also known as the Covid-19 swab test, is most commonly used due to its fast and accurate results. Let’s understand all about it in detail.

 

 

What is Covid-19 Swab Testing?

 

Following the outbreak of the pandemic and its rapid spread, governments had to devise a variety of tests to detect virus carriers. Covid-19 swab testing is one such effective test.

As the name suggests, a swab is used to collect mucus or saliva samples from nostrils or throat in this test. These samples are then transferred to a tube through which the presence of coronavirus xe variant is detected. 

The testing kit contains an instruction manual, a test device, a tube, a blue cap, a buffer bottle, a swab, a bag, and a tube rack. Ranging from four to 20 tests, the kit comes in various sizes. You can order the test kit from any online pharma company, buy it from a local medical store, or get the test done at a government hospital.

While it's free in government hospitals, a single test kit can cost up to Rs. 200 if you want to buy it. The cost for the Covid-19 swab test can vary from company to company. You can read the reviews and see which ones are the best. 

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved labs, instructing them to conduct the tests at the new prices.

Let's take a look at the price differences across states, government hospitals, and private clinics.

 

Cost Difference for Covid-19 Swab Test Across India

 

1. Maharashtra

The average cost of a test in Maharashtra ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 800. It costs Rs. 500 if you collect the sample yourself and submit it to a screening facility. However, the cost rises in case you seek the help of private clinics or hospitals. Quarantine centres charge Rs. 600 for tests and retests.

 

2. Karnataka

The price ranges between Rs. 800 and Rs. 1600 in Karnataka. The sample costs Rs. 800 when collected at a government lab, and Rs. 1200 when collected at a private hospital. If you prefer to have your sample collected at home, then it is charged at Rs. 1600, which includes the cost of the PPE kit of the person visiting your location.

 

3. Kerala

In Kerala, the cost of the test starts from Rs. 500 and can go up to Rs. 1700.

 

4. Gujarat

The cost in Gujrat varies between Rs. 800-900. 

 

5. Rajasthan

The test costs between Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 in Rajasthan.

 

6. Delhi

In Delhi, it starts from Rs. 800 and goes up to Rs. 2400.

 

7. Haryana

Haryana has a fixed cost of Rs. 1200 for the test.

 

8. West Bengal

While the test was previously charged at Rs. 2550 in West Bengal, it has now been reduced to Rs. 1500.

 

9. Uttar Pradesh 

Uttar Pradesh has a fixed cost of Rs. 700.

 

10. Andhra Pradesh

Due to the availability of kits in great quantities, the Andhra Pradesh government reduced the price by 50%, making it available for Rs. 500 throughout the state.

 

 

"Prevention is better than cure" - Desiderius Erasmus

 

To avoid having to take a test, it is preferable to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine on a daily basis. Opt for a test only if you need to travel for important work. 

If you have the Corona Kavach health policy, you don't need to worry about the cost. It covers pre- and post-hospitalisation and medical expenses, along with home-care treatment costs. It not only gives you extensive coverage for corona treatment, but it also provides you with a financial safety net in the event of a medical emergency during the pandemic. So, opt for it today and provide a secure future for yourself and your family. 

Niva Bupa Health Insurance offers the best health care insurance on the market, with an easy claim policy that makes the process hassle-free.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Covid-19 testing is free of cost in all the government hospitals and government centres. However, the policies may change if the number of cases increases. It is for this reason that Niva Bupa recommends having financial aid on hand in case of an emergency. The company has developed a Corona Kavach family floater to keep your entire family safe and secure during an emergency.