Bengaluru: The cost of treatment and diagnostic tests has increased by 20% at hospitals under the Department of Medical Education in Karnataka. The hike, which took effect recently, applies to hospitals affiliated with the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) and other medical institutions across the state. 

The price revision, which comes after 5-6 years, aims to support the maintenance of these hospitals. While not all services have become expensive, some treatments, surgeries, diagnostic tests, and scans have seen price hikes. For example, ward charges have increased because food is now included in inpatient charges, which were previously not covered. The cost for a shared special ward has risen from Rs 750 to Rs 1,000, while the cost for a single-bed special ward has jumped from Rs 750 to Rs 2,000. General ward charges have gone up from Rs 15 to Rs 20.

Other increases include OPD registration charges, which have doubled from Rs 10 to Rs 20, and inpatient registration fees, which have gone up from Rs 25 to Rs 50. Bed charges for inpatient services have also risen from Rs 30 to Rs 50.

Post-mortem and medical examination fees have been revised as well. However, the government will continue to cover treatment costs for Below Poverty Line (BPL) cardholders. In cases where patients cannot afford the increased charges, the hospital director can waive the fees.

The Congress government in Karnataka is facing criticism from the BJP over the hike. BJP leaders have slammed the state government, stating, "Higher prices for water, petrol, diesel, stamp duty, milk, and now medicinal treatment!"

A director of medical education  stated that the increase is modest and will not affect the number of patients. Despite the hikes, many basic tests, including some blood tests, will still be free of charge.