Odisha Government Launches Free Diagnostic Services in AYUSH Hospitals Under ‘Nidan’ Scheme
Bhubaneswar, Aug 31: In a landmark move to strengthen alternative healthcare systems, the Odisha government has implemented the ‘Nidan’ diagnostic scheme across AYUSH hospitals and medical colleges, offering 40 types of tests free of cost to patients.
The initiative, backed by a newly issued Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), aims to bring parity between AYUSH and allopathic services, ensuring patients no longer need to seek diagnostics elsewhere.
Under the scheme, 22 tests will be conducted in-house through outsourced agencies, while 18—including X-rays and ultrasounds—will be handled externally.
Each facility will be staffed with a lab technician and a pathologist to ensure smooth operations.
To make services more accessible, all user fees—except cabin charges—have been waived. Patients referred by AYUSH doctors will be eligible for these free diagnostics.
To compensate for the waived fees, the government will pay Rs 7 per OPD and Rs 35 per IPD patient to the hospitals.
These funds are earmarked strictly for service improvement and cannot be used for salaries, vehicle purchases, or major construction.
Additionally, AYUSH Rogi Kalyan Samitis (ARKS) will be formed to monitor service quality and implementation.
Until tenders are finalized, NHM-appointed staff will manage operations.
This move is expected to significantly boost the credibility and reach of AYUSH healthcare in Odisha, aligning it more closely with mainstream medical services.
