Key Facts
Shimla: The government laboratory at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) has suspended all vitamin tests for the past six months due to a machine breakdown. This has caused significant inconvenience to patients, who now have to seek tests at private facilities at higher costs.
Details of the Suspension
The affected tests include Vitamin D, B12, C, A, and E. The machine has been non-functional since January 2026, and no repair or replacement has been arranged yet. As a result, patients are being turned away from the government lab and directed to the authorized Krishna Lab.
Impact on Patients
Patients visiting IGMC for vitamin tests are facing long queues and delays. Many have to wait for hours at Krishna Lab, and some are forced to go to private clinics where tests cost between ₹300 and ₹1000. This is a heavy financial burden, especially since government lab tests are free.
Patients like Vivek Sharma, Shyam, Neetika, Sunil, and Chetna reported that they had to stand in line twice—first at the government lab registration counter, only to be told tests are unavailable, and then at Krishna Lab, where overcrowding leads to long waits.
What Patients Should Know
- Vitamin tests are not available at IGMC's government lab until further notice.
- The only authorized alternative is Krishna Lab, but it is often overcrowded.
- Private clinics offer tests at higher rates; patients should compare prices before choosing.
- Hospital administration has not yet indicated when the machine will be repaired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are vitamin tests suspended at IGMC Shimla?
The vitamin testing machine at IGMC's government lab has been out of order for six months, halting all vitamin tests.
Which vitamin tests are affected?
Tests for Vitamin D, B12, C, A, and E are currently unavailable at the government lab.
Where can patients get vitamin tests done?
Patients can get tests done at the authorized Krishna Lab, but due to high demand, many are forced to visit private clinics where tests cost ₹300-₹1000.
How much do private vitamin tests cost?
Private clinics charge between ₹300 and ₹1000 for vitamin tests, whereas government lab tests are free.