Regulatory Body for Health in India

The Economic Survey 2020-21 recommended the establishment of a health sector regulator in India. Widening gaps in the Public healthcare sector and neglect of public health infrastructure has led to the proliferation of Private healthcare services in India, particularly after the liberalization and privatization reforms of 1991. Private health sector is largely unregulated in India, due to which there is widespread prevalence of unethical practices and lack of accountability in this sector.

Present Regulatory Scenario

• At present, the private health establishments are regulated under the Clinical Establishments Act, 2010 and Clinical Establishments (Central Government) and Rules, 2012. As health is a state subject in India, it is up to states to adopt the act, or frame their own regulations. As of 2020, only 11 States and 6 Union Territories have adopted the Clinical Establishment Act, 2010.

Significance of a Health Regulator

• It will improve the standards and quality services provided by private health establishments.
• It will reduce information asymmetries between the private establishments and patients.
• It will ensure that the poor and vulnerable are not denied essential health services and ensure uniformity in prices so that healthcare becomes more affordable.
• It will restrict monopolistic practices adopted by private health establishments.
• It will also improve the Grievance redressal mechanisms.
• It will ensure equitable delivery of health services across various regions of India.