Mumbai’s public healthcare system has long struggled with high out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic tests. Private laboratories often charge hundreds or thousands of rupees for routine blood work, placing a heavy burden on middle- and lower-income families. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Aapli Chikitsa Yojana addresses this gap by offering a wide range of pathology tests at highly subsidised or nominal rates through civic health facilities.
Originally launched in 2019, the scheme faced interruptions, including a suspension that lasted several months after the previous contract expired in December 2024. It was successfully relaunched on 1 August 2025 and remains fully operational in 2026. The programme began at 100 municipal health centres and was expanded further within weeks, making affordable diagnostics more accessible across the city.
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Background and Relaunch
Aapli Chikitsa (meaning “Our Treatment” or “Our Diagnosis”) was designed to strengthen laboratory services at BMC dispensaries, maternity homes, suburban hospitals, and specialty facilities. The goal was to reduce the need for patients to travel to major tertiary hospitals or expensive private labs for common tests.
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| Aapli Chikitsa Yojana 2026 |
The earlier version of the scheme covered up to 139 tests (around 101 basic and 38 advanced). After a tender process in 2025, Lifenity Health Ltd, a Pune-based company, was selected as the service provider. The revised menu was streamlined to 83 tests — 66 basic and 17 advanced — based on recommendations from expert committees and alignment with practices in state-run facilities. The new contract is valued at approximately Rs 112 crore over four years, with targets for a large volume of tests.
The relaunch prioritised digital integration. Patient data is uploaded into the Health Management Information System (HMIS), and reports are delivered directly to patients via WhatsApp. This reduces follow-up visits and improves continuity of care when patients later visit any BMC facility.
Maharashtra Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana 2026
Highlights – BMC Aapli Chikitsa Yojana 2026
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Aapli Chikitsa Yojana |
| Launched By | Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) |
| Relaunch Date | 1 August 2025 (ongoing in 2026) |
| Initial Centres | 100 Health Centres |
| Total Tests | 83 (66 Basic + 17 Advanced) |
| Cost for Patients | Nominal / Highly Subsidised rates |
| Report Delivery | Directly on WhatsApp |
| Service Provider | Lifenity Health Ltd |
| Key Benefit | Affordable blood tests for Mumbai residents |
| Official Portal | portal.mcgm.gov.in |
| WhatsApp Chatbot | 8999228999 |
Coverage and Participating Centres
The scheme restarted at 100 institutions on 1 August 2025. These included:
- 16 suburban hospitals
- 30 maternity homes
- 5 specialty hospitals
- Dr R.N. Cooper Hospital in Vile Parle
- Hindu Hridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray (HHBT) Trauma Care Hospital in Jogeshwari
- All municipal dispensaries in Wards A to E
BMC aimed to extend the service to all its hospitals and dispensaries by 15 August 2025. By 2026 the network is significantly broader, covering a large portion of the civic primary and secondary healthcare infrastructure. Citizens can locate the nearest centre through the BMC portal (portal.mcgm.gov.in) under the Aapli Chikitsa section or by using the MyBMC Assist WhatsApp chatbot (8999228999).
Thet Karj Yojana 2026 Maharashtra
Tests Offered
The current menu consists of 83 tests carefully selected for relevance to common health needs in Mumbai, including monsoon-related illnesses such as malaria, dengue, and leptospirosis.
Basic tests (66) typically include complete blood count (CBC), blood sugar (fasting and random), haemoglobin, urine routine and microscopy, liver function tests (LFT), kidney function tests (KFT), lipid profile components, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in some packages, and test for common infections.
Advanced tests (17) cover more specialised diagnostics recommended by expert panels. These may include certain hormone assays, specialised infection markers, and other higher-complexity investigations.
Exact lists can vary slightly by centre and are available on the BMC portal under “Tests Available.” Patients should confirm the current menu at the time of sampling.
Cost Structure
Patients pay only a nominal fee. Historical rates under the scheme were around Rs 50 for basic tests and Rs 100 for advanced tests — far below private laboratory prices. Many secondary sources continue to cite similar patient charges for the relaunched version. Needy or below-poverty-line patients have often received tests free or at further reduced rates in earlier phases of the programme.
BMC subsidises the difference between the actual cost paid to the service provider (Lifenity Health) and the amount collected from patients. This public subsidy is what keeps the service affordable. Rates charged to patients should always be verified at the centre, as they can be updated.
How the Scheme Works
- Visit a participating BMC health centre (dispensary, maternity home, or hospital).
- Consult the doctor, who may prescribe tests under Aapli Chikitsa if clinically indicated.
- Carry identity proof (Aadhaar is commonly accepted) and any required documents such as proof of residence.
- Sample collection is done at the centre by trained personnel.
- Samples are processed by the empaneled laboratory.
- Reports are sent to the registered WhatsApp number and also made available through the HMIS for future reference at any BMC facility.
The digital delivery system has been one of the most appreciated features of the 2025 relaunch, eliminating long waits for physical reports.
Eligibility
The scheme is primarily aimed at Mumbai residents. While open to the general public, it places special emphasis on financially weaker sections. Proof of residence in Mumbai (Aadhaar, ration card, or domicile certificate) is usually required. Income verification may be asked in some cases for full subsidy benefits. No complex online application is needed — access is through the local BMC health facility.
How to Check Medical Centers & Tests List Online for BMC Aapli Chikitsa Yojana
Here are the simple ways to find the list of participating medical centres and available tests:
Method 1: Through Official BMC Portal
- Visit the Official BMC Website: https://portal.mcgm.gov.in
- On the homepage, look for and click on the “Aapli Chikitsa” option/link.
- Select the “Find Medical Center” option to view the complete area-wise list of centres offering the service.
- Click on the “Tests Available” link to see the full list of 83 tests (66 basic + 17 advanced) offered under the scheme.
Method 2: Using MyBMC Assist WhatsApp Chatbot (Easiest)
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Send a message to 8999228999 (MyBMC Assist chatbot).
- Type “Hi” or follow the menu options to search for the nearest Aapli Chikitsa centre and available tests.
- Check the BMC Citizen Health Portal at https://bmchealth.in for general health facilities information and maps.
- Use the “BMC on Map” or health facilities section on the main portal for location-based search of dispensaries, maternity homes, and hospitals.
- For any difficulty, call the BMC central helpline 1916.
Tip: The list is updated periodically. Always cross-check the latest centres and tests on the official portal or chatbot before visiting a centre.
Benefits and Public Health Impact
- Affordability: Dramatically lowers the cost of essential diagnostics.
- Accessibility: Brings testing closer to residential areas through the extensive network of dispensaries and maternity homes.
- Early detection: Encourages regular screening and timely diagnosis of conditions that are common in dense urban environments, especially during monsoon months.
- Digital convenience: WhatsApp reports and HMIS integration improve patient experience and data continuity.
- Reduced burden on tertiary hospitals: Many routine tests can now be handled at the primary and secondary level.
For a city of Mumbai’s size and density, reliable, low-cost diagnostics are a critical public health tool. The scheme supports preventive care and helps families avoid catastrophic health expenditure on routine blood work.
Practical Tips for Citizens in 2026
- Check the BMC portal or WhatsApp chatbot for the nearest active centre and the current test list before visiting.
- Carry Aadhaar and a working mobile number linked to WhatsApp.
- Follow any fasting instructions given by the doctor for accurate results.
- Keep the WhatsApp report safely for future medical consultations.
For complaints or issues, use the BMC central helpline 1916 or approach the health centre in-charge.
Challenges and Outlook
Like any large outsourced public service, Aapli Chikitsa has faced operational hurdles in the past, including delays in reports and contract transition issues. The 2025 relaunch incorporated lessons from earlier experiences, including tighter monitoring through HMIS and clearer digital workflows. Maintaining consistent quality, timely reports, and adequate staffing across all centres remains essential for long-term success.
As of September 2026, the scheme continues to function and serves as an important pillar of BMC’s primary healthcare strategy. With growing awareness and digital improvements, more Mumbaikars are expected to benefit from timely, affordable blood tests close to home.
Aapli Chikitsa Yojana demonstrates that targeted public investment in diagnostics can make a tangible difference in everyday healthcare access. For residents of Mumbai looking for reliable, low-cost pathology services in 2026, the network of BMC health centres under this scheme remains one of the most practical options available.
Citizens are encouraged to make use of the facility, verify the latest details at their nearest centre or on the official BMC portal, and contribute feedback so that the service can continue to improve. Affordable diagnostics are not just a convenience — they are a foundation for healthier communities.
| Official Website | Click Here |
|---|---|
| Central Govt Scheme | Click Here |
| Maharashtra Govt Scheme | Click Here |
| Join Telegram | Telegram |
FAQs – BMC Aapli Chikitsa Yojana 2026
Q. What is BMC Aapli Chikitsa Yojana?
It is a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation scheme that provides affordable blood tests and diagnostic services at subsidised rates through BMC health centres across Mumbai.
Q. When was the scheme relaunched?
The scheme was relaunched on 1 August 2025 after a temporary suspension and is fully operational in 2026.
Q. How many tests are available under the scheme?
A total of 83 tests are offered — 66 basic tests and 17 advanced tests.
Q. How much do the tests cost?
Patients pay only nominal or highly subsidised charges, which are much lower than private laboratory rates. Needy patients may get further concessions.
Q. Where can I get the tests done?
Tests are available at 100+ BMC health centres, including suburban hospitals, maternity homes, specialty hospitals, dispensaries, Cooper Hospital, and HHBT Trauma Care Hospital.
Q. How will I receive my test report?
Reports are sent directly to your registered WhatsApp number and are also stored in the BMC Health Management Information System.
Q. Who is eligible for the scheme?
All Mumbai residents can avail the benefit, with special focus on low-income and economically weaker families. Carry Aadhaar and proof of residence.
Q. How can I find the nearest centre and test list?
Visit portal.mcgm.gov.in and check the Aapli Chikitsa section, or message the MyBMC Assist chatbot on WhatsApp at 8999228999.
Q. Who is the service provider?
Lifenity Health Ltd has been appointed as the official service provider for sample collection and testing.
Q. Is any online application required?
No online application is needed. Simply visit a participating BMC health centre with the required documents and get the tests done as prescribed by the doctor.