The union budget, which establishes the tone for the entire year, is something that the business world eagerly anticipates this time of year. It makes sense to anticipate that, in addition to providing an economic boost and ensuring the inclusion of the disadvantaged, the healthcare sector will be given special attention. 

India’s healthcare system requires targeted investment. With a population of more than 1.3 billion people, the government faces a considerable task in delivering high-quality healthcare to all citizens. We require both public and private sector cooperation to reduce the cost of healthcare in India. 

The Indian healthcare industry has high expectations for the government to prioritise its needs and take action to increase accessibility and affordability as the Union Budget for 2023 draws near. 

Public and private sector funding 

To improve public and private investment in the healthcare sector and promote long-term economic growth, the government must act as an enabler and consistent policymaker. A healthy population will inevitably lead to economic growth. In addition, it requires financially viable, low-capital-intensive initiatives at the district and taluka levels to handle high patient loads and gain access to reasonable prices for high-quality care that will help you save money. 

Must prioritise digitisation 

In the years to come, it is anticipated that India’s diagnostic industry will concentrate on digitalisation, preventive testing, and a change in lifestyle. Real-time data gathering should be mandated by the government in conjunction with commercial diagnostic industry actors for illness surveillance and medical research. 

Patient well-being and efficient health management depend on quick and accurate diagnosis. We require systems for diagnosing several diseases, wellness promotion, and economical testing. The NHM’s Free Essential Diagnostics Project and other government programmes can help address the high cost of tests. To stop the spread of disease and save livelihoods during pandemics, mobile diagnostic services like those introduced in North-East India this year should be extended to border districts and isolated locations. 

Inclusion of wellness examinations and Ayush treatments in health insurance coverage 

A key element of the Indian Union Budget for 2023 may include health insurance that includes Ayush treatments and wellness exams. Health insurance policies may assist in expanding Indians’ access to preventative and alternative healthcare by covering these kinds of services. The government should create a framework and mechanism in this budget to allow health insurance to pay for wellness exams and Ayush therapies. Moreover, support for and funding of research could lower healthcare expenses to Rs 1000 per person per year. ##

Pilot project funding 

Moreover, support for pilot initiatives in developing industries like wellness, non-invasive treatments, pre-symptomatic testing, and Ayurveda is advised. 

R&D should prioritise geopathic stress. 

We urgently need policy intervention and promotion of research in fields like hazardous Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR) released during the use of mobile and electronic gadgets since we are rapidly increasing the density of Electrosmog with smart devices, technology, and wi-fi transmission. 

The world was in pandemonium when the COVID-19 epidemic struck. India, on the other hand, gathered resources and bravely fought the illness. The epidemic did highlight the need for a robust healthcare strategy in the nation, though. A health insurance premium calculator is a tool you may use online to determine the amount of coverage required based on your needs.

By prioritising health insurance in the budget, the government can provide a safety net to millions of citizens who are vulnerable to medical emergencies. However, it remains to be seen how the government will allocate funds and design policies to ensure that health insurance becomes a viable option for all sections of society. Make sure you compare health insurance plans before buying one.

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