Healthcare Has a Price Tag! Himachal Govt Hospitals Now Charge ₹10

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 1 Views

The Himachal Pradesh government has announced that patients visiting state-run hospitals will now be required to pay a ₹10 consultation fee at the time of registration. The decision, based on recommendations from the Cabinet Sub-Committee, aims to strengthen healthcare services by funding sanitation, hygiene, and infrastructure maintenance.

Key Highlights of the New Healthcare Fee Policy:

Mandatory ₹10 Consultation Fee – Patients must pay the fee upon registration at government hospitals across the state.
Rogi Kalyan Samitis Empowered – These committees are now authorized to levy user charges to improve hospital services.
Opposition Criticism – Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has called the move anti-people, urging the government to withdraw the fee.
Exceptions & Free Services – 133 diagnostic tests will remain free, and certain patient categories (including cancer patients, pregnant women, and elderly individuals) are exempt from the fee.

Outlook on Himachal’s Healthcare Policy

While the government argues that the fee will enhance hospital services, critics claim it burdens patients, especially those seeking emergency care. The policy has sparked debate over healthcare affordability, with opposition leaders demanding a rollback.

Sources: Economic Times, Tribune India, The Week, News18, Devdiscourse.

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