Latest National Health Accounts Report Reveals Decline in Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditure

According to a recent report from the Health Ministry, out-of-pocket expenditure as a percentage of total health expenditure in India decreased to 43.4% for the fiscal year 2022-23, a significant decline from 64.2% recorded in 2013-14. This decrease has been attributed in part to the establishment and operationalization of more than 180,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandir wellness centers throughout the country.

These wellness centers, part of the Ayushman Bharat scheme launched by the government, aim to provide accessible healthcare services to citizens, particularly in underserved areas. The initiative seeks to reduce financial strain on households by promoting preventive healthcare and offering comprehensive services to improve overall health outcomes. The positive trend in reduced out-of-pocket expenses reflects ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability for the Indian population.