The number of diagnostic labs in Nepal is increasing rapidly and some labs are giving unnecessary tests and wrong reports.

The number of diagnostic labs in Nepal is increasing rapidly and some labs are giving unnecessary tests and wrong reports.

Labs that are not registered and accredited by the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) are considered illegal and increase the risk of fraud.

NPHL has classified labs based on grades and international certifications, which ensure quality and reliability.

Even if we see a common health problem these days, the first thing we do is search it on Google. We write down our symptoms, such as headache, stomach ache or fatigue. Google displays a list of possible diseases, ranging from mild to severe.

We get scared, and we rush to the nearest lab and get various tests done. But this habit sometimes increases unnecessary expenses. Due to the fear of disease, we are also victims of fraud.

The number of diagnostic labs in Nepal is increasing rapidly. The lab has become the base from simple checkup to complex disease diagnosis.

But some labs may prescribe unnecessary tests and give false reports. In addition, there are increasing cases of fraud such as being lured by cheap offers or charging more money because the test that is done in Nepal should be sent abroad.

It is necessary to proceed in a smart way to avoid such fraud.

1. Check the lab's official accreditation

Registration and accreditation from the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) is mandatory for running any diagnostic lab in Nepal. Before choosing a lab, you can visit the official website of NPHL and search the name of the lab.

If not registered, it is invalid and may compromise the quality and accuracy of the report. Because, many cases of fraud are from such illegal or fake labs. Also, one can go to the lab and see the registration certificate. This small step saves you from false reports or unnecessary expenses and ensures a reliable health check.

If not registered, it is invalid and may compromise the quality and accuracy of the report. Because, many cases of fraud are from such illegal or fake labs. Also, one can go to the lab and see the registration certificate. This small step saves you from false reports or unnecessary expenses and ensures a reliable health check.

2. See lab's grade (category).

NPHL divides the labs into 'A' to 'E' grades on the basis of infrastructure, area, quality of machines, manpower and test capacity. 'A' grade labs are the most advanced, where high-end tests are possible in Nepal itself. The grade list can be viewed on the NPHL website.

Choose A or B grade labs as much as possible. Because in low grades, the machines may be old or the staff may be incompetent, in which case the report may not be correct. This test reduces the risk of fraud and increases the chances of getting a clean result.

3. Look for NABL and ISO 15189 certification

Labs should be NABL ISO 15189 certified for international standard quality. Accreditation by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) means that the laboratory's testing, calibration, reporting and technical capabilities are reliable.

This certificate ensures the reliability of the laboratory in health, science, industry and research. This assures both customers and regulatory bodies of quality and fairness.

These ISO certificates can be viewed on the lab's website, board or office. Some labs like NPHL in Nepal have proven this. In labs without ISO, process errors can occur, which can push patients to wrong diagnoses and unnecessary treatment. Choosing a lab with this certificate gives your report credibility and helps prevent fraud.

4. Ask whether the test is done in Nepal or sent abroad

Some labs send samples to India saying 'we do it in Nepal', which results in late reports, increases the risk of sample spoilage and costs more. The rules of the Nepal government have banned the sending of tests conducted in Nepal to foreign countries. Ask clearly in the lab and get written information. There may be errors in the report due to temperature mismatch when sending abroad.

By choosing a test in Nepal, you will get a fast, cheap and clean report. Avoid such mistakes by being careful.

5. Look at the type of machine

If there is a fully automated machine in the lab, the report will be faster and less error. Human error is more in semi-automated or manual machines. While visiting the lab, look at the machines and ask questions. In labs with old or manual machines, the risk of false reports is high.

Automated machines give accurate results and reduce fraud (ie: double testing). This check will save you both money and health. In this case, a question may arise, is it possible to see the lab machine? Don't worry, a good lab won't hesitate to show you the machine.

6. Understand the correctness of the report

At the end of the report there is a signature, which identifies who checked the sample. Therefore, the signature of a qualified pathologist, microbiologist or bio-chemist can be understood before and after examination.

They check the accuracy of the report by comparing it with your clinical history. Abnormal results reported only by technicians or machines may be incorrect. Qualified experts prevent unnecessary fear or misdiagnosis. Fraud is more common in labs that do not have this. Check the eligibility of the signer while taking the report. It increases credibility and helps in treatment.

7. Compare prices and don't fall for the cheapest offer

The cost of the same test varies greatly from lab to lab. Ask the prices of 2-3 reliable labs. Even if it is very cheap, you have to look at it with suspicion. In some markets, there may be such labs, which can write a partial test and estimate the rest. The price according to the quality is normal. And don't forget to ask for the bill. This comparison saves unnecessary expenses and prevents fraud.

8. Exercise caution in home collection and sample collection

Nowadays, if necessary, there is also a service to collect samples at home and give results, which is called 'home collection'. While taking home collection, check the official staff of the lab and the IT card. See that sterile syringes, appropriate vials and bar cords are used.

If the sample is contaminated, there will be an error in the report. Check the cleanliness and procedure even when visiting the lab. Check if name, age, gender match while taking report. This precaution reduces the risk of infection and false results. Many errors occur in sample handling. Secure collection ensures clean reports.

9. Read reviews and complain if in doubt

Check the reputation of the lab from Google reviews, Facebook or friends. Choose labs that have been around for a long time and have good reviews. If there are new or bad reviews, there is a higher risk of making mistakes in the report. In case of wrong report or error, complain to NPHL or Ministry of Health.

This step also saves others. Viewing reviews will give you real experience and help you make smart decisions. Caution is the best defense in health screening.