Accordingly, the NDRA and the drug inspectors have to provide a report after investigations to the health minister. Legal action will be taken against the private hospitals and the laboratories, who do not provide the benefits to the public.

This decision was taken due to the rapid spread of Dengue, which needs blood tests to be taken, the minister added.

Under the reduction of blood test charges the maximum for a blood test is Rs. 250 while for a Dengue test it is Rs. 1, 000. Earlier private hospitals charged Rs. 3,000 for a Dengue blood test. The test results have to be given within half an hour. The new charges are in effect until further notice.