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Coronavirus: Hospitals, clinics across UAE slash prices of Covid-19 PCR tests

Dubai - The test remains free of charge for those suspected to have contracted the virus.

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Covid-19 PCR tests across the country are now available at cheaper prices.
These highly accurate nasal swab tests would typically cost Dh370 but now, rates have gone down to less than Dh300. In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health (DoH) has capped the price at Dh250.
According to sources, the DoH circular titled 'Diagnostic test for Coronavirus (Covid-19)', a copy of which KT has obtained, states: "Please note that the cost of the PCR test is updated and shall be covered by the individual directly, with a maximum amount of Dh250 for cases with no symptoms or medical indication for testing."
The test remains free of charge for those suspected to have contracted the virus and others who are classified under vulnerable groups.
Other healthcare networks across the country have also slashed their PCR test prices.
The VPS Healthcare Hospitals, which runs 12 hospitals and a number of clinics, recently announced that it is now offering the test at Dh200, with results expected within 24 to 48 hours. Those who wish to get their results within 12 hours could avail of the Dh250 option. Hospitals under the group that are offering the discounted price include Burjeel Hospital, LLH Hospital, Medeor Hospital, and Lifecare Hospitals.
Zulekha Hospital has launched special group screenings, encouraging people to get tested before they get back to work at a price of Dh250 per test.
A number of Aster Clinics across Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman have also announced that they are conducting the RT-PCR tests at Dh299.

Cheaper rates for travellers

Those travelling abroad could get tested for less than Dh200 as airlines partner with healthcare firms.
>Dh150: Air India Express
Passengers flying from the UAE to India may take their RT-PCR tests at home for Dh190, budget carrier Air India Express (AIE) has announced. Those who don't require home services could be screened for Dh150, with the airline's new tie-up with NMC Healthcare, the AIE said in its latest blog post. Testing is facilitated in various NMC clinics and hospitals across the UAE, including 11 centres in Abu Dhabi, four in Dubai, eight in Sharjah, and one in Ras Al Khaimah.
* The NMC also has partnerships with Air Arabia, Air India, Indigo, PIA and Air Blue.
>Dh180: flydubai
Dubai-based budget airline flydubai teamed up with Aster DM Healthcare to offer the test to its passengers at a special rate of Dh180. Testing services are available at 28 Aster hospitals and clinics across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Passengers are required to submit a valid flydubai booking confirmation, along with their Emirates ID or passport copy to redeem the offer.
saman@khaleejtimes.com