NEW DELHI, Aug 11: A parliamentary committee has recommended measures to curb rising healthcare expenses and make treatment at private hospitals more affordable for patients.
Among its proposals is a cap on hospital room charges, with the committee suggesting that rates could be linked to those charged by nearby three star hotels. It has also called for greater regulation of package rates for medical procedures.
The recommendations come amid growing concerns over the financial burden faced by patients seeking treatment in private healthcare facilities. Hospitalisation costs have emerged as a major concern for households, particularly when prolonged treatment involves room charges, diagnostics, medicines and other medical services.
The panel’s proposal seeks to improve transparency in private hospital billing and prevent patients from facing disproportionately high accommodation costs during treatment.
It has also emphasised the need for a framework that balances the interests of healthcare providers with patients’ ability to afford necessary medical care.
The recommendations could lead to wider discussions between the government, hospitals and other stakeholders on regulating private healthcare prices while ensuring that hospitals can continue to maintain quality infrastructure and services.
The proposed measures assume significance as healthcare expenses continue to place pressure on household finances, strengthening calls for greater affordability and transparency in medical treatment.