Be Careful When Doing Lab Tests! You Could Be Scammed in These Ways

How Do People Get Scammed During Lab Tests?
This question is very relevant and important — especially in today's time when many private institutions are providing health services. If consumers are not aware, there is a real possibility of being scammed during lab tests. Detailed information is provided below.

Common Ways of Getting Scammed During Lab Tests:

Unnecessary Test Recommendations

• Recommending expensive and complicated tests even for minor symptoms without a doctor's advice.

Double Billing in the Name of Testing

• Charging separately under different names for the same test.

False or Misleading Reports

• Producing incorrect reports to push for additional tests or to sell medicines.

Fake or Substandard Labs

• Using non-certified labs, which can provide inaccurate results.

Collusion Between Doctors and Labs

• Some doctors may refer patients only to labs from which they receive commissions, leading to excessively high charges.

Key Points Consumers Should Keep in Mind:

Verify Lab Certification

• Check if the lab is certified by the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL), Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC), or ISO certified.

Check Lab Registration

• Confirm whether the lab is registered with the Ministry of Health.

Only Get Tests Based on Doctor’s Prescription

• Do not take any tests without proper medical advice.

Transparent Pricing

• Ask for clear information about costs before starting any tests. Avoid labs that do not provide official bills.

Check the Quality of the Report

• Ensure that the report is clear and includes the medical reference ranges.

Understand Consumer Rights

• If you receive a wrong report or are overcharged, you have the right to file a complaint under the Consumer Rights Protection Act.

Why Labs Need to Be Sensitive:

Direct Impact on Human Health

• Wrong reports can lead to wrong medications, causing serious health problems.

Trust Factor

• In healthcare, truth and trust are extremely sensitive. Once trust is lost, it is very difficult to regain.

Dependence on Accurate Diagnosis

• Treatment is based on lab reports. If the report is wrong, disease identification and subsequent treatment will also be wrong.

Moral Responsibility
Lab technicians and health institutions have a very high ethical responsibility.

Useful Tips:

• Always ask for a bill with the lab’s name when doing a test.

• Check what machine or method (technique) was used for the test.

• If you have doubts about the report, getting a second opinion is advisable.

• Select a lab after checking online reviews.

• If You Suspect You Have Been Scammed, You Can File Complaints At:

  • Consumer Rights Protection Forum

  • Ministry of Health and Population

  • Health Insurance Board (if you have insurance)

  • Spread awareness through media and social media.