In a significant move toward improving healthcare access and reducing financial burdens on citizens, the Central government has tripled per capita spending on healthcare, according to a recent data.

The per capita government expenditure surged from Rs 1,042 in 2013-14 to Rs 3,169 in 2021-22, marking a 3x increase during the government's tenure, according to the National Health Accounts Estimates for India.

This substantial rise reflects the administration's ongoing efforts to bolster the healthcare system and provide enhanced medical services to a growing population.

. Source: National Health Accounts Estimates

Moreover, another key milestone has been achieved, with public healthcare spending now surpassing out-of-pocket expenditure for the first time in India’s history, the data showed.

The percentage of out-of-pocket health costs borne by citizens fell from 64.2 percent in 2013-14 to 39.4 percent in 2021-22, while the share of government health spending rose from 28.6 percent to 48 percent during the same period.

This shift signifies a notable improvement in financial protection and a crucial step toward universal health coverage for all, according to the data.

National Health Accounts Estimates National Health Accounts Estimates

The data highlights the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led administration's focus on healthcare reform, aiming to ensure that quality medical care is more accessible and affordable, a government statement said.

Experts believe that this increase in public health expenditure can significantly reduce the financial stress on low-income households, allowing for a healthier and more equitable society.