Is India's Covid testing facing price gaps and delay in data?
India is seeing an uptick in Covid-19 infections, reaching over 7,000 cases. But in contrast to earlier waves, there seems to be gaps in diagnosis and testing.Given the current season of rampant viral infections and many individuals showing symptoms, RT-PCR tests are neither being prescribed widely nor being voluntarily taken."Most of the Covid-19 testing we're seeing today is happening within hospitals, where viral panel testing is mandatory before procedures or in cases of severe symptoms. Neither clinicians nor patients are approaching it with the same urgency anymore," said Dr. Vibhu Kawatra, a Delhi-based pulmonologist and allergy specialist.advertisement
RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction), which remains the gold standard for detecting Covid-19, works by identifying the virus's genetic material in nasal or throat samples.However, Dr. Kawatra pointed out, "Only a doctor can prescribe an RT-PCR test, and unless the symptoms are severe or hospitalisation is required, the test is often skipped."Even when testing is sought, accessibility and affordability are serious barriers.
RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction), which remains the gold standard for detecting Covid-19, works by identifying the virus's genetic material in nasal or throat samples. (Photo: AFP)
In the private sector, RT-PCR test prices vary drastically depending on the diagnostic lab. Dr. Path Labs charges upwards of Rs 5,000 for a home collection, while Max Healthcare offers the same at Rs 500. At Dr. Dangs Lab, a home visit costs Rs 700. Similar price ranges are being seen across neighbourhood clinics as well.advertisementThis wide pricing disparity reflects the fragmented nature of the diagnostic sector, proving to be unregulated.But despite this inconsistent pricing model, there seems to be reduced testing rates, coupled with the closure of many free government testing centres.A recent visit to Lok Nayak Hospital in New Delhi revealed that the Covid testing window had been shut down. Many other government-run facilities have scaled back or completely discontinued RT-PCR testing, further limiting testing options for the general public.Rising cases highlight the need for routine testing to monitor its spread."The patients who have died not just had Covid-19 but also had underlying health conditions. It is not always the virus alone, but the comorbidities that tip the scale," said Dr. Sudeep Khanna, gastroenterologist and liver specialist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.DELAY IN VIRUS GENOMIC DATASurveillance at the national level is also facing delays.The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the official body monitoring Covid-19 variants in India, has been slow in releasing updated epidemiological data.
There seems to be reduced testing rates, coupled with the closure of many free government testing centres. ()
Only limited information has been shared so far for newer variants like LF.1, NB.1.8.1, and XFG, making it difficult to gauge the evolving nature of the virus.Public health experts stress the need for proactive surveillance, affordable and accessible testing, and better data transparency.VACCINES STOCKPILEGovernment sources told India Today that there are enough Covid-19 vaccines in storage and ready to use. "We are fully prepared for any situation. We have enough stockpile to meet the requirements of our citizens. Moreover, if needed, we can even supply vaccines to other countries," the sources said.Nearly 1 billion people in India have taken at least one dose of either Covishield or Covaxin.
Only limited information has been shared so far for newer variants like LF.1, NB.1.8.1, and XFG, making it difficult to gauge the evolving nature of the virus. ()
Covishield, manufactured and distributed by the Serum Institute of India under a licence from AstraZeneca, stopped being produced in December 2021 because fewer people were taking it.advertisementSimilarly, Covaxin, India's first home-grown Covid-19 vaccine made by Bharat Biotech with ICMR-NIV, also stopped production in early 2022.Despite the halt in manufacturing, officials say that vaccine availability is not a concern.Doctors believe the current rise in cases may be due to seasonal changes in respiratory infections though global health experts say the protection from past infections and vaccines may be wearing off, which could be causing new spikes in some areas.While general information about Covid-19 continues to be available, there seems to be hindrances in the timely response to the infection.Tune InMust Watch
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