Kerala Health Minister seeks more affordable care in private sector hospitals

Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan.

Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan has directed the Principal Secretary (Health) to hold a consultation with representatives of the private health sector and other stakeholders to explore options to make treatment in private hospitals more affordable and accessible to the common man.

The report sent by Mr. Muraleedharan talks about the large number of complaints he receives from the public regarding the exorbitant treatment fees charged by private hospitals. He says he also receives several complaints about alleged deficiencies and errors in treatment in private hospitals.

Accessible

Mr. Muraleedharan points out that while private hospitals are a key presence in Kerala’s healthcare sector and their contribution to specialized and advanced medical care is recognized and greatly appreciated, it has become necessary to take appropriate steps to make such services more affordable and accessible to people from all walks of life.

He suggests that the government can start negotiations with private health care providers in three areas, namely reduction of drug costs, reduction of diagnostic fees and reduction of room rents.

Mr. Muraleedharan suggests that steps should be taken to supply drugs at prices below the MRP whenever possible and that better transparency could be brought into the prices of drugs supplied through private hospitals.

It also says fees for lab tests, imaging and other diagnostic services can be reassessed to reduce the financial burden on patients. Feasibility of reducing room rent and other charges related to accommodation in private hospitals, especially for common rooms and general wards, may also be explored, the note said.

According to Mr. Muraleedharan, the government’s position is that treatment should not be so expensive that common people cannot afford it. He adds that a practical regulatory framework is needed that protects the interests of patients while taking into account the operating costs and practical difficulties of private hospitals.

A statement issued by the health minister’s office said that a four-member committee, chaired by the principal secretary (health) and comprising the director of health services, director of medical education and executive director of KMSCL, will look into the prospect of drafting a bill that would include the above aspects.

Published – 02 Oct 2026 07:00 IST