In light of the current Covid-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court of India has issued an order urging citizens to conduct themselves responsibly towards medical teams. Additionally, it has decreed that Coronavirus testing should be made free of cost across all hospitals.
Responsible Behaviour Towards Medical Teams
Responding to various petitions emphasizing the necessity for adequate protective gear for medical professionals, the Supreme Court order sought to enforce responsible behaviour towards these ‘Corona Warriors’. Several instances have shown doctors facing violence, and this order aims to deter such actions while acknowledging Covid-19 as a national calamity.
Citizens are called on to support the government and medical staff endeavouring to contain and combat the pandemic. The Supreme Court order assures protection for medical teams visiting screening sites or areas where new Covid-19 positive cases may be found or quarantined. The police have been directed to take action against people hindering or offending doctors, medical staff and officials performing their duties.
The government has been further encouraged to increase domestic production of protective clothing and gear for medical professionals via alternative modes. It is advised to potentially limit export of such materials to boost inventory and local supplies. Ensuring availability of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to medical and paramedical professionals lies with both the Centre and State governments.
Free Testing for Covid-19
This latest decree followed a petition requesting implementation of free testing by private labs. The Supreme Court had previously challenged the advisory price cap of ₹4,500 in private labs and hospitals, arguing it may be inaccessible for a significant portion of the populace. As per the new directive, Covid-19 tests conducted in approved government or private laboratories will be free of charge.
The government has been instructed to issue necessary directives without delay. These tests must be conducted only in National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accredited laboratories or any agencies approved by World Health Organization (WHO) or Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
In the recent past, the government also decided to provide free testing and treatment to existing beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat Scheme or the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).
