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Amid rising public complaints over expensive medical bills, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announces a proposal to regulate charges for basic procedures in private healthcare facilities.
In response to growing complaints from citizens about the rising cost of treatment at private hospitals, the Karnataka health department is preparing a proposal to introduce a cap on the pricing of basic medical procedures, aiming to bring uniformity and affordability.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the move on Tuesday while addressing the concluding event of a 15-day statewide jatha organised for the Right to Health. The awareness campaign was conducted across all 31 districts from February 2, highlighting issues related to access, affordability, and quality of healthcare services.
Expressing concern over the rapid corporatisation of private healthcare, the minister said the government believes it is necessary to establish clear benchmarks for medical costs, at least for commonly performed procedures. He clarified that the focus would initially be limited to basic treatments and not extend to complex or high-end medical interventions.
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“We are not planning to regulate advanced and specialised procedures at this stage. But basic treatments should have reasonable and uniform pricing across private hospitals. Our department has prepared a detailed proposal, which I intend to submit to the Chief Minister and the state cabinet within the next two weeks,” Rao said.
The minister added that once the cabinet grants approval, a dedicated committee will be formed. This panel will include representatives from private hospitals and other key stakeholders to offer suggestions and help finalise the framework for price regulation.
The proposed move is expected to bring greater transparency in medical billing, protect patients from sudden financial strain, and promote fairness in private healthcare services. Officials believe this step could significantly ease the burden on middle- and lower-income families who often struggle with rising medical expenses.
