COVID-19 RT-PCR test cost likely to come down to ₹780

The Maharashtra health department has decided to reduce the rate of COVID-19 tests in private laboratories by ₹200.

According to sources, the tests for the coronavirus can now be conducted in any laboratory for just ₹780. Moreover, Health Minister Rajesh Tope on Monday, December 14, informed about the same. The minister's comment came just days after the Centre asked all states to increase the number of RT-PCR tests. He further added that the matter will be issued ahead of the assembly session on Monday.

When the pandemic hit the country back in the month of March, the rate for COVID-19 testing was set at ₹4,500 for private laboratories. However, the prices for the tests were gradually reduced in September to ₹980. Currently, RT-PCT tests in the state cost anywhere between ₹980 and ₹1,800. A cut in the price could put it in the range of ₹700 to ₹1,000.

Tope speaking to the media had earlier assured that a second wave of the coronavirus infections was unlikely, however, Maharashtra is ready to tackle it if such a situation arises. Earlier, under the chairmanship of Tope, a meeting of the State Task Force and the Death Audit Committee was held.

A review of the mortality rate and preparedness to combat a possible second wave of the coronavirus was pondered about. The meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary of the Health Department Dr Pradeep Vyas, Chairman of the State Task Force Dr Sanjay Oak, Chairman of Death Audit Committee Dr Avinash Supe, Chairman of State Infectious Disease Control Room Committee Dr Subhash Salunke, Director of Health Sadhana Tayde, and Dr Archana Patil.

Meanwhile, on Monday, December 14, Maharashtra recorded 2,949 fresh cases of the coronavirus taking the COVID-19 tally in the state to 18.83 lakh cases. Of the 2,949 new cases, 477 were in Mumbai. Moreover, the state’s death toll climbed to 48,269 with 60 more people succumbing to the coronavirus.