Representative image
NEW DELHI: For the first time in over a decade, the Centre has revised the price list for nearly 2,000 tests and procedures for CGHS beneficiaries with the increase in some cases adding up to seven times the current level.The move is expected to help over 40 lakh CGHS beneficiaries who often faced difficulties in getting treatment at some of the top hospitals due to the low rates.While in most cases the increase in rates are nominal, there are also examples of significant increases. For example, the rate of complicated extraction of a tooth under local anaesthesia has been revised from Rs 115 to Rs 800 for NABH-accredited health facilities.Similarly, the rate of MRI mammography (test to find out breast cancer), stood at Rs 2,550 for non-NABH accredited hospitals, which has now been raised 67% to Rs 4,250. In the case of NABH-accredited and super-speciality hospitals it has been increased by around 60% to Rs 5,000 for NABH-accredited and super-specialty hospitals as per the revised rate list.The rate of exploratory laparotomy — an abdominal surgery — has been revised to Rs 27,500 from Rs 25,000 for NABH accredited hospitals. The new CGHS rates will be effective Oct 13, according to a govt order. It said CGHS has adopted the structure of differential rates based on accreditation status, hospital type, city classification and ward entitlement. Under this, the non-NABH and non-NABL healthcare facilities will get 15% lower rates than NABH/NABL accredited healthcare organisations (HCOs). (NABL – National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration of Laboratories).Also, rates for super-speciality hospitals shall be 15% higher than those applicable to NABH-accredited hospitals for the corresponding super-specialities within the same city category, govt order stated. The order added the rates for healthcare facilities located in Tier II cities and Tier III cities rates shall be 10% and 20% respectively lower than those located in Tier I cities.
