On Friday, the Goa government slashed the existing COVID-19 treatment cost in private hospitals, keeping in view the steep scarp in infections in the state. Consequently, now the treatment of a coronavirus victim in a general ward of a private healthcare facility will cost ₹8,000, per day, in comparison to the earlier amount of ₹10,000. Corresponding reductions have been effectuated for other akin private medical services as well.
An effort to make healthcare affordable
An order issued by the Health Ministry, read, “Considering the sudden surge of COVID-19 cases in the state of Goa and in order to make private services more affordable to the common man during the COVID-19 crisis, the government hereby reduces the capped rates prescribed.”
Revised rates at private hospitals (per day basis)
- General Ward: Now ₹8,000, Earlier ₹10,000
- Twin sharing rooms: Now ₹13,000, Earlier ₹10,400
- Private single rooms: Now ₹16,000, Earlier ₹12,800
- ICU facility with a ventilator: Now ₹19,200, Earlier ₹24,000
However, it is to be kept in mind that the reduced rates do not include services like diagnostic interventions, use of special drugs and equipment, other surgical procedures and extra oxygen flow, the order also states.
Goa COVID caseload update
As per data, Goa has reported an overall tally of 73,644 confirmed COVID-19 victims till date and on the other hand, 61,628 people have battled the virus successfully. The state is currently handling a count of 11,040 active coronavirus patients and as yet, 6,09,332 citizens have been tested for the virus. However, 976 fatalities have been observed, since the pandemic broke out last year.
