The unaffordability of private healthcare in India presents a significant challenge for the majority of the population. With nearly 70% of Indians lacking health insurance, out-of-pocket expenses become a severe burden. Private healthcare costs are often prohibitively high, making quality medical services inaccessible to many. For instance, a single hospitalization can cost up to ₹50,000 ($670), a substantial sum considering the average annual per capita income is around ₹1.35 lakh ($1,800).

High costs stem from expensive medical treatments, diagnostic tests, and hospital stays, driving many families into debt or forcing them to forego necessary care. This situation is exacerbated by inadequate public healthcare infrastructure, leading to a reliance on private facilities. Consequently, the health disparity between the wealthy and the poor widens, underscoring the urgent need for affordable and accessible healthcare solutions, such as expanded insurance coverage and strengthened public health services.

The Indian public health system, despite challenges, has made remarkable strides in improving healthcare access and outcomes. Notable achievements include the eradication of polio, extensive immunization programs, and the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides health coverage to millions of low-income families. India’s network of primary health centers and government hospitals delivers essential services to rural and urban populations alike. Initiatives like the National Health Mission have significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates.

However, in times of a medical crisis, the sheer size of the country, the lack of connectivity and the lack of access to information such as this often results in medical bills that are way beyond people’s capacity to payback.