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Indian Express
2 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
The road to Universal Health Coverage in India
At the recently convened 78th World Health Assembly, India reaffirmed its commitment to health equity — a timely resolution to address stark disparities in access to care. Central to India's pledge to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, Ayushman Bharat is positioned as a game changer, ushering in transformative gains by expanding comprehensive healthcare, strengthening health infrastructure, and accelerating digital adoption. A key pillar of India's flagship Ayushman Bharat initiative is the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), offering comprehensive hospitalisation cover and financial risk protection to an estimated 500 million beneficiaries — roughly the bottom 40 per cent of India's population. Historically accounting for 60-70 per cent of total healthcare spending, out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) in India has declined to 39.4 per cent, according to the latest National Health Accounts estimates (2021–22) — a positive shift, though it remains to be seen whether this trend will sustain over time. The post-Covid period has seen a surge in healthcare listings on Indian stock exchanges, with corporate hospitals, diagnostic chains, pharmaceutical firms, vaccine makers, medical device companies, and health insurers entering the market. As per industry projections, India's healthcare industry — valued at $370 billion in 2022 — is estimated to reach $610 billion by 2026. The hospital sector alone accounts for nearly 50 per cent of all foreign direct investment in medical care, with strong interest from private equity firms. Concurrently, there have been inbound mergers and acquisitions by corporate hospitals in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, with the objective of greater market penetration and maximising revenue. Amidst the rapid expansion of the for-profit medical industry, insurance models are critical for financial protection, but more in a complementary role. Rhetorically seen as a panacea for UHC, insurance-led models may lead to cost inflation and, as seen in the US, exacerbate access barriers, exclusion, and widen disparities in health outcomes. Amid a surge in investments by business entities and a decisive shift towards an insurance-led framework, India's health system stands at an inflection point, making it imperative to examine the implications of this model in ensuring equitable and accessible healthcare. Enabled by a confluence of demographic shifts, an epidemiological transition, and supportive policy measures such as 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in health insurance, the healthcare landscape is becoming increasingly conducive to private sector growth. The elderly population (60+ years), as per the UN World Population Prospects, is projected to rise from 10 per cent to 30 per cent by 2050. Simultaneously, there is an upsurge in the burden of non-communicable diseases — diabetes, cancers, heart and chronic respiratory diseases — with studies showing mortality rates now accounting for over 60 per cent, up from 37 per cent in 1990. Competitive costs and a skilled workforce have made India a hub for medical tourism, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 17–19 per cent. Yet, infrastructure gaps persist, with a bed-to-population ratio of just 1.5 per 1,000 — well below the WHO norm — and with a skewed spread concentrated in metros. These supply and demand dynamics are expected to drive hospitalisation rates and tertiary care utilisation, boosting demand for specialised services, predominantly met by the private sector. The growth of corporate healthcare shares a symbiotic relationship with the expanding health insurance ecosystem, with each reinforcing the other. The National Sample Survey Office's (NSSO) 75th Round survey (2017–18) revealed that over two-thirds of OOPE in India is on outpatient care, with more than 70 per cent of outpatient services sought in the private sector. However, both PM-JAY and private health insurance schemes primarily cover hospitalisation, serving as financial buffers against catastrophic inpatient costs, while outpatient care remains largely excluded. According to NITI Aayog's Health Insurance for India's Missing Middle report, nearly 30 per cent of the population — about 400 million people — lack any form of health insurance, leaving them vulnerable to financial shocks. This cohort is a heterogeneous mix of diverse socio-economic groups, cutting across wealth quintiles. The geriatric age group — often with multiple chronic conditions — incurs substantial spending on outpatient services, medicines, and diagnostics, all largely excluded from insurance packages. Upper-income quintiles opt for private insurance packages, while lower-income quintiles rely on government-funded schemes like PM-JAY, which have capped procedure rates often significantly lower than what private insurers or cash-paying patients are charged for the same procedures. This results in differential pricing and unfair pricing practices, especially for vulnerable patients who lack the power to negotiate. With little incentive to contain costs, both insurers and providers may perpetuate a cycle of over-treatment and rising premiums, pushing even the middle class toward financial hardship. This model undermines the principles of UHC, where access should be based on need, not purchasing power. India can draw valuable lessons from global health transition models towards universalism — Japan's standardised pricing and mandatory insurance, or Thailand's tax-financed comprehensive coverage with public sector investment, among other exemplary inclusive models. The private sector has played a role in most countries; however, over-reliance without parallel public sector investment can undermine equity and long-term sustainability. According to NFHS-5 (2019–21), roughly 35 per cent of under-five children are stunted, and 57 per cent of women aged 15–49 are anaemic, reflecting broader socio-economic challenges. This underscores the need for multisectoral engagement and strategic investment in preventive and primary healthcare, targeting biomedical and socio-economic determinants. For a resilient public health system, it is imperative to reaffirm the principles of the Bhore Committee and the Alma-Ata Declaration — emphasising equitable distribution of essential healthcare and community participation, with structured and incremental investment as a higher proportion of GDP in health and social sector schemes. Equally important are stringent regulatory frameworks for drugs, diagnostics, medical devices, and corporate hospital advertising. Taking a cue from China, information technology can be leveraged to develop effective prescription audit systems to detect unnecessary medical procedures and promote rational drug use. India's public sector investment, especially in preventive and primary healthcare, needs to outpace the for-profit market trajectory to prevent widening disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. As Martin Luther King Jr said, 'Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane.' The road ahead demands inclusivity — moving away from dominant narratives and putting the invisible at the centre stage. The writer is a public health professional and social entrepreneur
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
Best Insurance Plans for Mental Health Coverage 2025
In 2025, prioritizing mental health is more important than ever. As awareness grows and stigma decreases, access to reliable insurance plans that include robust mental health coverage has become a vital part of comprehensive healthcare. Whether you're looking for therapy, medication, or inpatient treatment, the right insurance can make these services more affordable and accessible. This guide outlines some of the best options available in 2025. Insurance Plans for Mental Health Coverage UnitedHealthcare (UHC) stands out for its wide provider network and commitment to behavioral health. UHC offers various programs like 24/7 virtual mental health visits, an extensive network of in-person therapists, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Their coverage includes therapy, substance use treatment, and crisis care, making it one of the most well-rounded choices available today. Learn more about UHC mental health benefits and how they can support your well-being throughout the year. Cigna Healthcare is another strong contender, offering a seamless digital experience and access to both traditional and alternative mental health therapies. With options like personalized coaching and virtual sessions, Cigna appeals especially to younger populations who value convenience and digital-first experiences. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield includes behavioral health as part of their essential benefits under ACA-compliant plans. Their telehealth expansion in 2025 further supports remote therapy and mental health consultation, making care more reachable than ever. Other notable mentions include Oscar Health and Kaiser Permanente, both of which continue to grow their mental health support services, with Kaiser focusing on integrated care and Oscar leveraging tech-driven member engagement. To address growing demand, many plans now offer more flexible policies, with expanded coverage for preventive therapy sessions, youth mental health programs, and even stress-management tools. Mental health parity laws have also strengthened, requiring insurers to treat mental health on par with physical health, which has pushed more providers to refine their offerings. Many employers are now offering expanded mental wellness benefits as part of group plans to improve productivity and satisfaction across their workforce. This shift toward proactive care means that therapy is now seen as a vital wellness tool, not just a crisis response. Conclusion Choosing the best mental health insurance plan in 2025 involves more than comparing premiums—it's about understanding the level of support, network accessibility, and how well a plan fits your unique needs. Providers like UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, and Anthem are leading the charge in offering flexible, comprehensive coverage that prioritizes your mental well-being. With more tools, more providers, and better access than ever before, now is the time to invest in your mental health through the right insurance partner. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Daily Express
24-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Express
Malaysia's resolution on lung health adopted by WHO
Published on: Saturday, May 24, 2025 Published on: Sat, May 24, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Dzulkefly said bilateral meetings were also held with counterparts or health representatives from Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran, Palestine, Brunei and Norway to strengthen health cooperation between countries. Kuala Lumpur: A landmark resolution on lung health by Malaysia has been officially adopted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in conjunction with the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) in Geneva, Switzerland. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the adoption of the resolution was a historic achievement and a great success for Malaysia in global health leadership. 'Alhamdulillah, the official mission to Geneva in conjunction with WHA78 has been completed successfully. Last night I returned to the country with a stronger spirit and a stronger determination,' he said in a Facebook post today. Dzulkefly said that while in Geneva, he also represented Malaysia as the host at a side event during the WHA78 to advance oral health in Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He said various strategic meetings were held with international health organisations such as WHO, Gavi (the Vaccine Alliance), Rare Disease International (RDI), Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and Medicines Patent Pool (MPP). Dzulkefly, who led the Malaysian delegation to WHA78 in Geneva from May 18 to 22, said bilateral meetings were also held with counterparts or health representatives from Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran, Palestine, Brunei and Norway to strengthen health cooperation between countries. Advertisement According to him, Malaysia also voiced its commitment to vaccine equity, pandemic preparedness and the One Health agenda at the regional level. 'Every step and exchange in Geneva brings a clear message - Malaysia is not only following the global health trend, but also leading, driving and shaping a common direction. 'Thank you to all strategic partners, delegation members, and staff of the Ministry of Health who worked hard to make this mission a success,' he said
New Straits Times
24-05-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Malaysia's resolution on lung health adopted by WHO
KUALA LUMPUR: A landmark resolution on lung health by Malaysia has been officially adopted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in conjunction with the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) in Geneva, Switzerland. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the adoption of the resolution was a historic achievement and a great success for Malaysia in global health leadership. "Alhamdulillah, the official mission to Geneva in conjunction with WHA78 has been completed successfully. Last night I returned to the country with a stronger spirit and a stronger determination," he said in a Facebook post today. Dzulkefly said that while in Geneva, he also represented Malaysia as the host at a side event during the WHA78 to advance oral health in Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He said various strategic meetings were held with international health organisations such as WHO, Gavi (the Vaccine Alliance), Rare Disease International (RDI), Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and Medicines Patent Pool (MPP). Dzulkefly, who led the Malaysian delegation to WHA78 in Geneva from May 18 to 22, said bilateral meetings were also held with counterparts or health representatives from Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran, Palestine, Brunei and Norway to strengthen health cooperation between countries. According to him, Malaysia also voiced its commitment to vaccine equity, pandemic preparedness and the One Health agenda at the regional level. "Every step and exchange in Geneva brings a clear message - Malaysia is not only following the global health trend, but also leading, driving and shaping a common direction. "Thank you to all strategic partners, delegation members, and staff of the Health Ministry who worked hard to make this mission a success," he said –Bernama
The Sun
24-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Malaysia's resolution on lung health adopted by WHO
KUALA LUMPUR: A landmark resolution on lung health by Malaysia has been officially adopted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in conjunction with the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) in Geneva, Switzerland. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the adoption of the resolution was a historic achievement and a great success for Malaysia in global health leadership. 'Alhamdulillah, the official mission to Geneva in conjunction with WHA78 has been completed successfully. Last night I returned to the country with a stronger spirit and a stronger determination,' he said in a Facebook post today. Dzulkefly said that while in Geneva, he also represented Malaysia as the host at a side event during the WHA78 to advance oral health in Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He said various strategic meetings were held with international health organisations such as WHO, Gavi (the Vaccine Alliance), Rare Disease International (RDI), Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and Medicines Patent Pool (MPP). Dzulkefly, who led the Malaysian delegation to WHA78 in Geneva from May 18 to 22, said bilateral meetings were also held with counterparts or health representatives from Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran, Palestine, Brunei and Norway to strengthen health cooperation between countries. According to him, Malaysia also voiced its commitment to vaccine equity, pandemic preparedness and the One Health agenda at the regional level. 'Every step and exchange in Geneva brings a clear message - Malaysia is not only following the global health trend, but also leading, driving and shaping a common direction. 'Thank you to all strategic partners, delegation members, and staff of the Ministry of Health who worked hard to make this mission a success,' he said
