Calls for transparent pricing of treatment packages for foreign patients visiting India on Medical and Ayush Visas
New Delhi, October 2026 : The Central Government has urged all states and Union Territories to ensure that hospitals and medical institutions prominently display the charges for available treatments, services and facilities. In this regard, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava has written to the Chief Secretaries of all states, directing them to ensure the effective implementation of the relevant rules.
The initiative aims to ensure that patients receive clear information about the potential cost of treatment, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It is also intended to reduce misunderstandings and disputes arising from medical bills. The Centre has emphasised the need to strengthen transparency and accountability in healthcare services and enhance public trust in the healthcare system.
Display of Rates in Local Languages and English Mandatory
Under the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, and the rules applicable under it, medical institutions in states where the Act is in force are required to display the rates of available services and facilities at locations where patients and their relatives can easily see them. The rates are expected to be displayed in both the local language and English.
In states and Union Territories where the Act is not applicable, medical institutions are regulated under the respective independent regulatory frameworks. These frameworks also contain provisions concerning the display of healthcare service charges.
Since health is a state subject, the responsibility for implementing and monitoring the relevant rules rests with the respective state governments and Union Territory administrations.
Transparent Treatment Packages for Foreign Patients
The Centre has also urged states and Union Territories to encourage hospitals to prominently display the prices of treatment packages offered to foreign patients visiting India on Medical or Ayush Visas for medical treatment or traditional Ayush therapies.
This measure will help international patients understand treatment costs and make informed decisions. It is also expected to reduce complaints relating to pricing and billing, while further strengthening India's image as a trusted destination for medical and Ayush treatments.
In her letter, the Union Health Secretary has further stated that the concerned authorities should issue the necessary instructions to medical institutions and ensure that rate lists are clearly displayed and easily accessible in accordance with the applicable rules.
