SC to Centre

 SC to Centre

Supreme Court urges Centre to take call on standard hospital charges or face implementation of CGHS rates


Extract:

The Supreme Court has urged the Centre to make a decision regarding standard hospital charges. The Centre has been called upon to implement Clinical Establishment Rules for standard rates.

Failure to comply might lead to the implementation of CGHS-prescribed rates if states do not adhere to the regulations.

In a significant move, the Supreme Court is emphasizing the importance of regulating hospital charges to ensure uniformity and transparency in healthcare costs.

The Centre's role in setting these standard rates is crucial to avoiding discrepancies and excessive billing practices that burden patients.


My Take:

Freezing of Freebies…..29/08/2022

The current situation resonates with the issue of fiscal discipline raised in my previous blog. As FM Nirmala Sitharaman rightly pointed out, budgetary provisions should align with promises made to prevent adverse effects on the economy.

Similarly, the Centre's actions in setting standard hospital charges must prioritize financial sustainability and equitable healthcare access to prevent any negative economic impact.
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Thank You, Chief Ministers….03/06/2021

The call for the Centre to take action on standard hospital charges echoes the need for collective decision-making highlighted in the messages from various chief ministers.

Just as the procurement of vaccines centrally was advocated for efficient distribution, a unified approach to hospital pricing can streamline healthcare delivery and alleviate financial burdens on citizens.

Collaboration among states and the Centre is essential to ensure effective implementation of healthcare policies.


Call to Action:

To the Centre and state governments, I urge for swift and collaborative action in determining standard hospital charges. Transparency and fairness in healthcare pricing are vital for the well-being of citizens.

Let's prioritize the implementation of regulations that promote affordable and quality healthcare services for all.


With regards,

Hemen Parekh