6 out of 10 people prefer getting treatment in private hospitals

On the occasion of Universal Health Coverage Day, a new study by healthcare provider Pristyn Care found that 6 out of 10 people prefer getting treatment in private hospitals over government hospitals. Additionally, 5 out of 10 patients in tier 2 and 3 cities travel to metros for better treatment. The study was conducted among 3,150 people in Mumbai, Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kanpur, Patna, Kochi and Vijayawada. Covid-19 pandemic with its unpredictability and deadly consequences underscored crucial lessons in healthcare and how the system needed to be more resilient and adaptable in the coming times. The rapid spread of the virus overwhelmed hospitals, strained supply chains, and caught us unaware. Around 45% people bought health insurance after the pandemic, while around 42% increased their insurance limit – which shows the importance and value of health coverage.

On the bright side, 7 out of 10 respondents in metro cities report that they are satisfied with the current state of surgical care accessibility in the city. These findings highlight that India is striving to achieve Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing healthy people as the cornerstone of healthy societies and economies.

The study also revealed that 6 out of 10 think medical procedures are cost-effective in India. When asked about what aspect of the healthcare system in India requires the most improvement, 30% mentioned affordability of medical treatment and 24% mentioned about the quality of healthcare professionals.

Around 61% of people think they have easy access to quality, affordable healthcare in their city. However, when asked about the reason for not availing any health insurance, 30% cited expensive premiums.

As the world reflects on a decade of progress, challenges, and opportunities in advancing UHC, India stands as a beacon of commitment. Despite global challenges, the government’s two-pronged approach through Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY) has made quality healthcare accessible and affordable for millions.