Directorate General of CGHS
CGHS Rate Revision
Hospital Empanelment Cell (HEC)
CGHS OPD Fees 2026: Clarification on Registration & Consultation Charges
- Subject: Clarification on OPD Consultation Fees
- Authority: Directorate General of CGHS
- Applicable To: All Private Empanelled HCOs
- Key Rule: No separate Registration Fee allowed
● Verified with Official Guidelines: January 20, 2026
Order Summary
The Directorate General of CGHS has received representations regarding Private Empanelled Health Care Organizations (HCOs) charging separate “Registration Fees” or “Admission Fees” over and above the prescribed CGHS Consultation charges.
The Competent Authority has issued a strict clarification stating that the OPD Consultation Fee prescribed by CGHS is a consolidated package. It includes all administrative costs, including registration.
✅ Official Clarification
Authority: MoHFW / CGHS Directorate
Ruling: HCOs cannot charge beneficiaries extra for Registration/File Charges.
Action: Strict administrative action against non-compliant hospitals.
The New Protocol for Beneficiaries
When visiting an empanelled hospital with a valid referral (or in emergency), the beneficiary must only pay the prescribed CGHS rates. If the hospital demands a separate “Registration Fee,” it is a violation of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).
✔ Included in Consultation Fee
- Registration: File opening/Data entry charges
- Vitals: BP Check, Height/Weight measurement
- Observation: Basic clinical assessment
- Valid Period: Follow-up within 7-15 days (as per specific hospital rules)
✖ Strictly Prohibited
- Registration Fee: Charging ₹100-500 extra is illegal
- File Charge: No separate cost for medical file
- Advance: No advance payment for cashless pensioners
Approved Rate Table (2026)
The rates differ based on the city (X, Y, Z Class) and the accreditation status of the hospital (NABH vs Non-NABH). Beneficiaries should verify the status before billing.
| Service | NABH Accredited (₹) | Non-NABH (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| OPD Consultation | ₹ 350 | ₹ 350 |
| IPD Consultation (Per Day) | ₹ 350 | ₹ 350 |
| Registration Charges | NIL | NIL |
Complaint Draft (If Hospital Overcharges)
If an empanelled hospital forces you to pay Registration Charges or refuses Cashless treatment (for Pensioners), submit this complaint to the Additional Director (CGHS) of your city.
“To,
The Additional Director,
CGHS [Insert City] Zone.Sub: Complaint regarding overcharging/violation of MoA by Empanelled Hospital.
Sir/Madam,
I am a CGHS Beneficiary (ID: 1234567). On 20.01.2026, I visited [Insert Hospital Name] for OPD consultation. Despite the CGHS rules, the hospital administration forced me to pay ₹200 as ‘Registration Charges’ over and above the consultation fee.
I request you to take necessary administrative action against the HCO and facilitate the refund of the excess amount charged.”