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Kerala Hospitals Face Price Cap on Treatment
1 Oct
Summary
- Government plans bill to regulate private hospital costs.
- Committee formed to study medicine procurement for hospitals.
- Focus on transparency and affordability in healthcare.
The Kerala government is initiating measures to regulate treatment expenses in private hospitals, with plans to introduce a bill in the assembly. A committee, led by the principal secretary of health, has been established to analyze costs for medicines, diagnostics, procedures, and accommodation. This panel will explore if procuring medicines via the Kerala Medical Services Corporation could reduce patient expenses.
The government has received numerous complaints regarding high charges and potential deficiencies in private healthcare. While recognizing the role of private hospitals in providing advanced services, the focus is on enhancing affordability and accessibility. Consultations with private hospitals are planned to discuss supplying medicines below Maximum Retail Price and improving pricing transparency.
The committee will also review charges for diagnostic services and accommodation, aiming to lessen the financial burden on patients. Furthermore, the government is considering expanding its health insurance schemes to more private facilities. Proposed legislation will also address issues of treatment deficiencies and patient safety, striving for greater accountability in the private healthcare sector.
