Have you ever visited a hospital or a diagnostic lab and been advised to undergo a long list of tests that didn’t seem necessary? Or have you come across attractive “full body check-up” packages that promise to detect everything but leave you confused and burdened with bills? You’re not alone. The issue of unnecessary medical testing and screening has become a growing concern in India.
Recently, this issue was raised in the Lok Sabha by Shri Sribharat Mathukumilli. He asked the government about “rampant over-testing” by hospitals, doctors, and diagnostic labs—often without proper medical prescriptions. In response, the Union Health Minister, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, provided a detailed statement. Here’s what every patient needs to know.
1. Is the Government Aware of Unnecessary Testing?
Yes, the government acknowledges the problem.
The Minister confirmed that the government is aware of cases where unnecessary diagnostic tests and health packages are prescribed. However, health is a state subject, meaning the primary responsibility to regulate hospitals, clinics, and labs lies with state governments. Complaints received by the central government are forwarded to the respective state authorities for action. Unfortunately, no central database is maintained on the number of such complaints or actions taken.
2. Can Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) Monitor This?
No, not directly.
Many people wonder if the government’s digital health mission can track and flag labs or hospitals that prescribe excessive tests. The government clarified that ABDM does not have a mechanism to monitor clinical practices like over-testing. Its role is limited to providing a digital framework for secure sharing of health records with patient consent. It does not involve surveillance of doctors or algorithms to detect malpractice.
3. So, What Is Being Done to Protect Patients?
The government outlined several key measures:
a) The Clinical Establishments Act, 2010
This is a crucial law adopted by 19 States and Union Territories (including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, and Telangana). The Act mandates that:
- Hospitals and labs must meet minimum standards of facilities and services.
- They must follow Standard Treatment Guidelines to avoid arbitrary prescriptions.
- They must maintain digital health records for every patient, ensuring transparency.
In states where this Act is implemented, a district-level authority (headed by the District Collector) can penalize or even cancel the registration of hospitals or labs found violating the rules.
b) Empowering Patients Digitally – ABHA and PHR
The government is promoting the use of the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) and Personal Health Record (PHR) applications. These digital tools allow you to:
- Store all your medical reports securely online.
- Share your health history with doctors digitally, avoiding repeat tests just because you lost a physical report.
- Build a complete health record over time, helping doctors make informed decisions without recommending unnecessary tests.
c) Ethical Guidelines for Doctors
The National Medical Commission (NMC), which regulates medical practice in India, has strict guidelines for doctors. As per the Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics Regulations, doctors must:
- Avoid unnecessary consultations and investigations.
- Ensure all diagnostic tests are prescribed judiciously, based on actual medical need.
Doctors violating these guidelines can face disciplinary action, including suspension of their license.
4. What Can You Do as a Patient?
While systemic measures are in place, patients must also be proactive:
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor why a particular test is needed. A legitimate prescription will have a clear medical reason.
- Seek a Second Opinion: If a long list of tests seems excessive, consider getting a second opinion from another trusted doctor.
- Use Digital Health Tools: Create your ABHA ID and start storing your health records digitally. This reduces dependency on multiple tests and gives you control over your data.
- Report Malpractice: If you suspect a hospital or lab is prescribing unnecessary tests for profit, file a complaint with your State Health Department or the district clinical establishment authority (if your state has adopted the CE Act).
The Bottom Line
The government recognizes the problem of over-testing but places the onus of regulation on state authorities. While laws like the Clinical Establishments Act and digital initiatives like ABHA are steps in the right direction, their effectiveness depends on implementation at the ground level.
As patients, staying informed and vigilant is our best defense. Remember: Your health is your right, but unnecessary tests are not your responsibility. Always ensure that every medical investigation you undergo is backed by genuine need and clear medical advice.
Source: Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 111, answered by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on 6th February 2026.
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