A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare has recommended capping basic room charges at private hospitals at the average tariff of nearby three-star hotels as part of a broader push to make healthcare more affordable.
The recommendation is part of the committee’s report on the affordability and accessibility of healthcare facilities in the public and private sectors, which contains 368 recommendations aimed at reducing treatment costs and improving access.
Under the proposed benchmark, the basic room tariff at private hospitals in large metropolitan cities would not exceed the average rate charged by three-star hotels in the surrounding area. Costs such as resident doctors, nursing, consumables, meals and laundry could continue to be charged separately.
The panel has also recommended standardised package rates for common surgeries and medical procedures, covering components such as surgeon fees, diagnostics, consumables and standard post-operative care.
The committee cited a significant gap between public and private hospitalisation costs. According to data referenced in the report, average hospitalisation costs were around ₹6,631 in government hospitals compared with ₹50,508 in private hospitals.
Beyond room charges, the panel has called for a broader mechanism to standardise and cap the costs of essential treatments, diagnostics and routine procedures across private hospitals.
The recommendations are aimed at reducing unpredictable medical bills and limiting excessive charges, particularly for patients undergoing prolonged or complex treatment.
The panel has also proposed that hospitals provide patients with comprehensive upfront cost estimates before complex or lengthy medical procedures begin, helping families better understand their potential financial commitments.
However, these are recommendations of a Parliamentary committee, not immediate regulations. Any implementation would require further government action and the creation of an appropriate regulatory framework.
