Insurance cuts at government hospitals compel patients to pay for private care
Summary
The government's decision to cut outpatient services under the health insurance scheme at private hospitals has forced many patients to pay high fees at private facilities after facing long waits and limited services at state-run hospitals.
Key Points
- The government discontinued outpatient care under the health insurance scheme at private hospitals, forcing patients to seek expensive private care.
- State-run hospitals face shortages in medicines and long queues, compelling patients to pay out of pocket.
- The health insurance scheme is financially strained, with the board owing hospitals Rs18 billion.
- The reduction in outpatient service coverage has decreased health insurance renewal rates to around 50%.
- Experts criticize the government for not fulfilling commitments made during insurance premium sales.
