Goa has launched a groundbreaking free diagnosis scheme under the Ayushman Bharat program, offering diagnostic tests to all residents at government facilities. Aimed at reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs, the initiative covers over 500 tests, including blood work and imaging, with plans to expand to rural areas. The scheme strengthens Goa’s goal of universal healthcare access.
Goa Introduces Free Diagnostic Services for All Residents
In a significant step toward universal healthcare, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the launch of a free diagnosis scheme under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission on July 3, 2025, in Panaji. The initiative, rolled out across state-run hospitals and health centers, provides over 500 diagnostic tests, including blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds, at no cost to residents. The scheme aims to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare, particularly for low-income families, by ensuring early detection and timely treatment of diseases.
The program integrates with Goa’s existing healthcare infrastructure, leveraging the state’s robust network of primary health centers (PHCs) and community health centers (CHCs). Health Minister Vishwajit Rane emphasized that the scheme is designed to make diagnostics accessible even in remote areas, with mobile diagnostic vans planned for rural outreach by September 2025. “This is a game-changer for Goa’s healthcare system, ensuring no one is denied critical tests due to cost,” Rane said during the launch event.
Data from the Directorate of Health Services indicates that diagnostic costs account for nearly 30% of out-of-pocket health expenditure in Goa. By covering tests for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, the scheme addresses a major barrier to healthcare access. The initiative also aligns with Goa’s ambitious goal to become India’s first TB-free state by 2025, with enhanced focus on early diagnosis through chest X-rays and sputum tests.
To ensure seamless implementation, the state has partnered with private diagnostic labs to handle overflow and specialized tests, maintaining quality standards under the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). Residents can book appointments through the GoaOnline platform, which has processed over 9.3 lakh service requests since 2017, including 75,800 health-related services.
The scheme has received widespread praise from healthcare professionals. Dr. Shaila Kamat, a senior physician at Goa Medical College, noted, “Free diagnostics will encourage people to seek timely medical advice, reducing complications and hospital admissions.” However, challenges remain, including the need for trained technicians and equipment upgrades in rural PHCs, which the government plans to address through central funding.
Public response on social media platforms reflects optimism, with many residents calling the scheme a “lifeline” for marginalized communities. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential overcrowding at government facilities and urged the state to ensure adequate staffing. The government has allocated ₹50 crore for the scheme’s first phase, with plans to expand coverage to include advanced diagnostics like MRIs by mid-2026.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, official statements from the Goa government, and health sector data. Information is sourced from credible outlets like The Hindu, Times of India, and posts on X. The scheme’s implementation details may evolve, and readers are advised to verify updates through official channels.