Unlocking Healthcare: How Ayushman Bharat Beneficiaries are Turning to Private Hospitals for Quality Care at Greater Costs

The Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme has changed how millions access healthcare in India. While government hospitals comprise the bulk of registered facilities, many beneficiaries choose private hospitals, often at a higher cost.

According to a recent National Health Authority report, over 9 crore treatments have been provided under this scheme, amounting to ₹1.29 lakh crore. Of the hospitals enrolled, only 45% are private. Yet, surprisingly, more than half of all hospitalizations—about 52%—happen in private facilities.

Since 2018, the most sought-after treatments include haemodialysis, which makes up 14% of all cases. This procedure is vital for kidney failure patients and requires frequent visits, explaining its prevalence. Other common treatments involve fevers, gastroenteritis, and animal bites.

The scheme also benefits patients who seek treatment across state lines. For example, Chandigarh attracted 19% of patients, while Uttar Pradesh and Punjab had high out-migration rates for treatment. This portability feature allows patients to access care easily, regardless of where they live.

In recent efforts, the government is building a digital infrastructure to share health records. Since its launch in 2021, 50 crore health records are now linked digitally, making healthcare more streamlined. Approximately 60% of the population in India now has an ABHA number, which facilitates this process.

Experts believe that Ayushman Bharat is a significant step toward universal health coverage in India. A study by the World Health Organization highlighted the need for reduced out-of-pocket expenses, which this scheme addresses. The move towards digitization in healthcare could also improve service delivery and patient outcomes in the long run.

In conclusion, while Ayushman Bharat has made care more accessible, understanding patient choices—especially regarding private versus public healthcare—is key to enhancing the system’s effectiveness.



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