CAA warns private hospitals against overcharging for FBC, Dengue tests

Colombo, July 23 (Daily Mirror) - The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has reminded private hospitals and laboratories that maximum charges remain in force for certain medical laboratory tests, following reports that a private hospital in Jaffna had allegedly charged above the approved fee for a Full Blood Count (FBC) test.

In a statement, the CAA said that under Order No. 67 issued in terms of Section 20(5) of the Consumer Affairs Authority Act, No. 09 of 2003, the maximum charge for a Full Blood Count (FBC) test, including the report, is Rs. 400, while the maximum charge for a Dengue NS1 Antigen test, including the report, is Rs. 1,200.

The authority noted that the order has been in effect since July 29, 2020, following its publication in the Extraordinary Gazette No. 2186/17.

The clarification was issued after complaints emerged regarding a private healthcare institution in Jaffna allegedly charging more than the prescribed fee for an FBC test.

The CAA urged the public to remain vigilant when obtaining laboratory services from private hospitals and medical laboratories and advised patients to request an official bill or receipt for all payments made.

Consumers who are charged above the approved maximum fee can lodge complaints with the CAA through its 1977 hotline. 

The authority said complaints should be accompanied by receipts and any other relevant evidence to facilitate investigations