Page 2 - Healthcare Spending

Govt likely to set up Pradhan Mantri health fund in upcoming Budget

Centre, states to contribute to meet higher public spending target

Parl panel on Covid-19: Fees high at pvt hospitals; spending on health low

This is the first report by any parliamentary committee on the government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic

India Coronavirus Dispatch: Pandemic may persist longer in rural areas

Cases shoot up in Rajkot, MP's immunisation programme impacted, and urban middle class incomes hit--news on how the country is dealing with the pandemic

World Dispatch: China's vulnerability to 'second wave' of Covid infections

Trump's change in tone to Tokyo cases, and other pandemic-related news from across the globe

Govt asks industry to ramp up supply of protective gears for health workers

The government on Monday said it is continuously working with industry bodies, stakeholders and manufacturers on 24x7 basis to streamline the supply chain of protective gears required by healthcare professionals to fight the coronavirus spread. In a statement, the textiles ministry said that for last 45 days it, along with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, is attempting to locate adequate number of sources who can produce and supply the requirement of 'Body Coveralls' for government. Body Coveralls (PPE) is a specialised protective suit meant for high level of protection for health professionals. It has stringent technical requirements as prescribed by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Such materials are manufactured by a few international companies, who expressed their "inability" to supply on account of a complete glut in stocks and ban of exports by the source countries, the ministry said. Only a limited quantity was offered and procured by the procurement ...

Patients to bear the brunt of additional 5% health cess on device imports

Till date, the customs duty was 7.5%, plus educational cess. With an additional 5% health cess

Govt plans to provide medical treatment to gig workers at a subsidised rate

This may come as a relief to such companies as they will not be compelled to bear the social security cost of its workers

Before expanding, need to consolidate: Ayushman Bharat CEO Indu Bhushan

Ayushman Bharat scheme provides an insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh to 100 million 'poor and vulnerable' families

Fixing the demand slump: Seven reasons for slowdown, and possible solutions

The govt might look for quick fixes under pressure to revive the economy, but sustainable economic growth will continue to be elusive without structural changes, writes T N Ninan

Smart spending: Healthcare services at home need not be expensive

Since there is little insurance cover, one has to meet the expenses out of one's own pocket