To create a robust healthcare ecosystem in the country and to take Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojna (PM-JAY) under Ayushman Bharat Mission to the next level, apex healthcare body urged the government to make health insurance coverage mandatory for all citizens in a phased manner initially covering the organised sector. In its pre-budget recommendations to the government, also suggested the introduction of a Healthcare Infrastructure Upgradation Fund and sought ‘National Priority’ status for the healthcare sector. In view of very low penetration of health insurance in the country, out-of-pocket spending for healthcare services is very high.
For effective management of population health, universal health insurance would act as a powerful catalyst. “The major reason for the low penetration of health insurance is because it is currently optional. While the Government has taken laudable…
