Free COVID-19 Test in India

  • Author :
  • TATA AIG Team
  • Last Updated On :
  • 24/08/2023

COVID-19, the coronavirus, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It brought on a worldwide pandemic, causing severe illness and death, particularly in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

As a result, the Government of India and various health organisations have implemented safety measures, testing options, and facilities to prevent the spread of the virus. COVID-19 testing is a significant step in identifying and isolating virus cases, which can help take the required preventive steps.

If you have been looking out for information regarding free COVID testing near me, here is a detail to help you best.

Government-Approved Laboratories

To combat the spread of the virus, the Indian Government has made COVID-19 testing free of cost at government-approved labs nationwide.

If you have been in contact with an infected person or experiencing the symptoms of the coronavirus, it is important that you get yourself tested for taking the necessary medications. For example, you can search for the BMC free COVID test near me and locate the free test centres. Some common symptoms are coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing.

You can contact the Coronavirus Helpline Numbers for assistance if you are experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fever, or difficulty breathing.

To avail of a free COVID test, you can follow these steps:

  • The Coronavirus Helpline Number is +91-11-23978046, and the Toll-Free number is 1075. You can make calls on these numbers and report your symptoms.

  • If you are identified as a case of COVID-19 infection based on the protocols, you can get tested in a Government-approved lab free of cost.

  • The Government of India has designated laboratories for free COVID-19 tests nationwide. You can get it administered there at any time.

However, if you choose to test and treat yourself in a private hospital, you can proceed by bearing the corona test price in India.

Corona Test Cost At Private Hospitals

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued guidelines for COVID-19 testing in private labs in India, which can only be done if prescribed by a qualified physician. Due to the high COVID-19 test cost, the ICMR urged private labs and hospitals to provide tests at reduced rates to make them more accessible to most of the population. You can surf for a free RT PCR test near me and find the best private laboratories and hospitals that provide these facilities.

Currently, the cost of RT PCR tests in private laboratories in India ranges between ₹300 - ₹700. It is one of the most reliable tests for detecting coronavirus infection in the body.

Free Testing Under PMJAY

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is a health insurance plan launched by the Indian Government in 2018. The scheme aims to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to the population's economically and socially vulnerable sections.

It is one of the world's largest and best Government-funded healthcare programs. Under PMJAY, over fifty crore beneficiaries are eligible for annual coverage of up to ₹5 lakhs per family for medical expenses considering secondary and tertiary care.

Considering the pandemic scenario, PMJAY announced that testing for COVID-19 will be covered under the scheme for eligible beneficiaries. In addition, the scheme will also cover the cost of treatment for COVID-19 for eligible beneficiaries in both Government and private hospitals empaneled under the scheme.

This move aims to provide financial protection to the most vulnerable population during the ongoing pandemic and ensure they have access to quality healthcare.

The scheme is implemented in partnership with the State Governments to complement their ongoing efforts to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to their citizens. The scheme is also closely coordinated with the existing National Health Mission and other government schemes to ensure that the benefits reach the intended population.

Self Test Kit

A self-test kit for COVID-19 is a diagnostic tool that allows you to test yourself for the viral infection in your home. These kits typically include a nasal or throat swab and instructions for collecting and processing the sample. If you are looking for at home COVID test kit free, the approximate cost of the self-test kit is between ₹150 and ₹250, which is highly affordable. The test results can be read within a specific time frame, usually within 15-30 minutes.

These authorised self-test kits are an alternative to traditional laboratory tests, particularly for people who do not have severe symptoms or cannot access testing centres. However, it's important to note that self-test kits may have lower sensitivity and specificity than laboratory tests. Therefore, it is always better to consult a doctor or health professional before using a self-test kit.

Health Insurance And COVID-19 Coverage

A health insurance policy during the COVID-19 pandemic is fundamental as it can provide financial protection for hospitalisation costs. In addition, many insurance providers are now covering the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment, which can help alleviate some of the financial burden caused by the pandemic.

In addition, having a medical insurance plan can also ensure that you have access to quality care, including specialised treatment and facilities if needed. With many people losing their jobs or facing financial difficulties during the pandemic, having a health insurance policy can be a lifeline in case of illness. Therefore, compare health insurance and choose the best product based on your family’s medical history and financial conditions.

At Tata AIG, we provide a health insurance plan that includes a cover for COVID-19. Also, with our advanced online system, you can avail of our cashless treatment and reimbursement options in the best hospitals throughout the country.

Conclusion

The Indian Government has made COVID-19 testing free of cost at government-approved labs nationwide. You can contact the Coronavirus Helpline Numbers for assistance and get tested for free at a government-approved lab if you are experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fever, or difficulty breathing.

The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) also covers COVID-19 testing and treatment for eligible beneficiaries in Government and private hospitals. In addition, if you prefer getting the corona test done at a private hospital or laboratory, you can always choose to do so by bearing the cost.

Furthermore, having a health insurance policy during the COVID-19 pandemic can provide financial protection and access to quality care.

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