Germany's health ministry plans to crack down on fraud at Covid-19 test centres by implementing spot checks and reducing the amount the state reimburses for costs following media reports of overbilling by some providers.

Reuters reports it plans to cut the amount it reimburses per test to 12.5 euros ($15.2) from 18 euros, of which 8 euros is for carrying out the tests and 4.5 euros for the material, according to a draft of new testing legislation which must now be approved by other departments.

In addition, private test centres will only be approved on an individual basis to ensure quality, while health insurers will be obliged to check the plausibility of billing and conduct random checks.