As the Union Budget 2026 approaches, healthcare leaders are urging reforms that prioritize patient-first policies, preventive care, and better access. With rising medical inflation and limited insurance coverage, stakeholders seek higher public spending, tax incentives, and stronger domestic manufacturing to bridge gaps in affordability, infrastructure, and innovation.
India’s healthcare sector stands at a crossroads as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present the Union Budget 2026 on February 1. According to India Today, Firstpost, and News18, industry voices are calling for structural reforms to ensure affordable treatment, stronger insurance coverage, and improved infrastructure.
Public health spending remains at 1.9% of GDP, below the National Health Policy target of 2.5%, while medical inflation is estimated at 11–14% annually. Experts argue that without bold measures, patients will continue to face high out-of-pocket expenses.
Notable Updates and Major Takeaways
Insurance gaps: Calls for expanded coverage to reduce patient expenses.
Preventive care: Focus on lifestyle and non-communicable diseases.
Funding needs: Push for higher GDP allocation to healthcare.
Domestic manufacturing: Incentives sought under Atmanirbhar Bharat for medical devices and pharma.
Tax relief: Industry demands incentives for private sector investments in health-tech and infrastructure.
Patient-first reforms: Emphasis on affordability, accessibility, and innovation.
Conclusion
Budget 2026 is expected to be a defining moment for healthcare, with stakeholders hoping for patient-centric reforms that strengthen preventive care, expand insurance, and reduce costs. The sector awaits whether fiscal priorities will align with India’s growing healthcare challenges.
Sources: India Today, Firstpost, News18