Hospitals across Karnataka will be required to disclose the purchase price and maximum retail price (MRP) of medicines on patient bills from November 1, 2026, under new directions issued by the state health authorities. The measure is intended to improve transparency in hospital billing and help patients understand the cost of medicines and medical supplies. The state health department has also instructed hospitals to prominently display medicine price lists in public areas, particularly near registration counters, where patients and visitors can readily access the information.

Hospitals are expected to use the disclosed prices for medicines provided during treatment. The health minister said the government aims to address concerns about rising healthcare costs while avoiding measures that could make hospital operations financially unsustainable. Authorities are considering stricter…