Comparing private hospitals to vegetable markets, Chairman of the Meghalaya Health Advisory Board, Mayralborn Syiem, admitted that the state government can do little to regulate the rates this healthcare institutions charge the public except through prescribing rates under the Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS).
Speaking to reporters today, Syiem was asked about rising medical bills in private hospitals that put an undue strain on poorer families, who are then forced to choose between healthcare or their finances.
Syiem acknowledged this as a matter of concern. “That’s why our endeavour is to strengthen the MHIS, especially for underprivileged families,” he said. “While private hospitals function more like open markets – where rates vary just like vegetable prices – the government has empanelled specific hospitals under MHIS to provide relief to low-income households.”
He admitted that private healthcare pricing remains outside the complete control of the government but stressed the need for broader policy discussions and amendments. “This is a policy issue that must be addressed in consultation with all stakeholders to ensure no citizen, especially from weaker sections, is burdened by high treatment costs,” Syiem said, urging eligible citizens to enroll under MHIS.
Responding to concerns about many patients preferring to seek treatment outside the state due to a lack of advanced patient care, Syiem said the government is aware of the challenge and is working towards improving the sector.
“It’s true that people go outside the state for treatment but, despite limitations, our government hospitals, be it Shillong Civil Hospital, NEIGRIHMS, or district hospitals, have been providing quality care to many,” he said.
Syiem emphasised that enhancing healthcare facilities remains one of the state’s key priorities. “We are constantly trying to find ways and means to ensure that better health infrastructure is built within the state. It’s a long-term goal, but the commitment is there.”
