Members of IMA alleged that the financial crunch caused by this is affecting the services in private hospitals. RV Asokan, the Secretary General of Indian Medical Association (IMA), said that the rates under the Central Government Health Scheme were to be revised on a regular interval, but they have not been changed even after five years.

“The rates of various medical procedures have increased over the years but the schemes have not revised the rates based on the current rates. This makes it difficult for hospitals to continue offering medical services,” he added.

If the dues are not cleared, private hospitals are likely to begin cancelling medical services under the health schemes.

In a statement, IMA President Santanu Sen said that private hospitals contribute largely to the national healthcare sector as more than 70 per cent of outpatient department and 60 per cent of inpatient department are contributed by the private sector. Thus, the government should resolve these issues and pay off its dues.