Rajya Sabha member Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal raised concerns in Parliament over the alleged exploitation of patients by private hospitals and insurance companies under the guise of healthcare.

Speaking during Zero Hour, he highlighted how poor people are being deprived of basic medical services and are increasingly treated as “customers” rather than patients.

Call to Regulate Private Hospitals and Insurance Firms

Seechewal demanded strict action to curb the arbitrary practices of private hospitals and insurance companies. He stressed that insurance policies should be made simple and written in regional languages so that common people can easily understand their terms and conditions.

He also suggested adopting a nationwide model similar to Punjab’s Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme, which provides free treatment up to ₹10 lakh, stating that such benefits should be extended across the country.

Demand for More Government Hospitals Like PGI

The MP pointed out that due to the high cost of private healthcare, people increasingly depend on government institutions such as PGI Chandigarh. However, he noted that the hospital is already under immense pressure, catering to patients from multiple states.

He urged the government to establish more hospitals like PGI across the country to ease the burden and ensure accessible healthcare for all.

Healthcare Turning Into a Profit-Driven Sector

Seechewal expressed concern that healthcare, once considered a noble profession where doctors were seen as “second gods,” has now become a profit-driven business. He said private treatment is becoming unaffordable for the common man.

He further criticised insurance companies, stating that while they promise quality healthcare, they complicate claim procedures and policy terms, leaving people feeling cheated when they need support the most.

Rising Financial Burden on Families

Highlighting the economic impact, Seechewal said that due to the high cost of treatment, many families are forced to sell their savings, jewellery, land, or even homes to afford medical care.

He warned that the current system has created a situation where people fear the cost of treatment more than the disease itself, urging immediate reforms to protect the public.