Himbumail.com Impact Story
Shimla, June 4, 2025:
Bowing to public pressure and widespread criticism, the Himachal Pradesh government has rolled back its controversial move to limit free diagnostic tests in government hospitals.
The original decision—revealed in a government circular dated May 16—had sparked outrage after Himbumail.com broke the story and questioned whether even basic healthcare was becoming unaffordable for the common citizen.
What Was the Issue?
According to the earlier order, the government planned to offer 133 lab tests and X-rays free only to 14 select categories—including cancer, TB, HIV patients, pregnant women, senior citizens, differently-abled persons, widows, orphans, and BPL families.
All other citizens would be entitled to just one free annual health check-up, and additional tests would be chargeable through agencies selected under a PPP (Public-Private Partnership) model.
The decision to outsource diagnostic services and allow user charges for the general public triggered sharp criticism.
Public Outrage and Media Impact
The report published by Himbumail.com raised concerns about the erosion of free public healthcare.
Social media soon erupted with backlash, with citizens asking:
“When public hospitals already lack doctors and facilities, is the government now asking us to pay for basic tests too?”
Government Issues Clarification After Uproar
Faced with growing protests, the Health Department issued a clarification. The new circular confirms that:
All 14 categories will continue to receive free diagnostic tests and X-rays throughout the year in government health institutions.
Every citizen of the state will also be entitled to one free annual medical check-up.
Only those not covered under the 14 categories will have to pay charges—and only beyond the free annual check-up.
What the Health Secretary Said
The clarification, issued with approval from the competent authority, states that while a vendor will be selected under PPP mode to expand testing facilities, no charges will be levied on the exempted groups. In-house labs and private partners will charge only those outside the exempted list.
Himbumail.com’s Impact Journalism
This is not the first time Himbumail.com has forced the administration to act in public interest.
With persistent questioning and timely reporting, the platform ensured that the common man’s voice was heard loud and clear.
The big question now: Will the government implement this in letter and spirit at the grassroots level?
