What Is RT-PCR Test? Check How Much Does It Cost To Get Covid-19 Test Done In India

The real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) test, commonly known as RT-PCR test is considered to be the most effective test to detect COVID-19 virus in human cells.

A team of medics collect swab sample of a resident for COVID-19 test. (Image: PTI)

Ever since the outbreak of novel Coronavirus in the world, we have heard a lot about the changing dynamics, vaccines, cure and Covid-19 testing. There are two different types of tests such as diagnostic tests and antibody tests to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The most commonly heard test is the RT-PCR tests, that detect the virus’s genetic material in an individual. Many specialists consider it to be the most effective test to detect COVID-19 virus in human cells. What is RT-PCR Test? The COVID-19 RT-PCR test is a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) test for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in upper and lower respiratory specimens collected from individuals with or without symptoms or other reasons to suspect COVID-19 infection. In the RT-PCR test, a small amount of DNA is taken through a swab from the test candidate to diagnose if there is an infection. The swab is taken from Nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal, the part of the throat behind the nose. This test is typically highly accurate and usually does not need to be repeated. The results are attained same day but may also take a weeks time in some cases. What is the cost of RT-PCR Test? The cost of the RT-PCR test has been changing over the past months ever since the outbreak of Coronavirus. Each state in India has separate charges for RT-PCR test. The private labs in Delhi earlier charged Rs 2,400 while Andhra Pradesh has pegged it as high as Rs 2,900. Haryana conducts RT-PCR test for Rs 900 while West Bengal and Karnataka last month revised these rates at Rs 1,500-1,600. However, the Supreme Court last week issued notice to the Center, States, and Union Territories seeking response on differing costs across states. Days after this, Delhi and Gujarat state governments have slashed the cost for RT-PCR test from to Rs 800 from the existing rate of Rs 2,400 in the private hospitals. If the patient wants doctors to come home and do the test, then it will cost Rs 1,100 in Gujarat, and Rs 1,200 in national capital.