India faces a growing cancer burden, which places significant pressure on the healthcare system. As a result, policymakers and health experts increasingly emphasise strengthening financial protection and treatment access. The Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has already improved access to cancer treatment for low-income populations by providing insurance coverage for hospital care. However, experts argue that the programme must expand further to address the entire cancer care pathway.
Ayushman Bharat Has Improved Treatment Access
Since its launch in 2018, Ayushman Bharat has supported millions of patients by reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Government data shows that the scheme has covered more than 68 lakh cancer treatments worth around ₹13,000 crore, benefiting many people from rural and economically weaker communities.
In addition, research indicates that patients enrolled in the programme are significantly more likely to begin treatment soon after diagnosis. A study published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia found that enrolment increased the likelihood of starting cancer treatment within 30 days of diagnosis, highlighting the scheme’s role in improving timely care.
Gaps in Diagnostics and Early Detection
Despite these improvements, gaps remain in early detection and diagnostic coverage. Screening tests and diagnostic procedures often fall outside the current benefit packages of the scheme. Consequently, patients frequently experience delays in diagnosis, which can lead to more advanced disease and higher treatment costs.
Moreover, diagnostics currently account for only a small share of total cancer care spending, yet they play a crucial role in detecting cancer early and guiding treatment decisions. Therefore, experts recommend integrating diagnostic services and screening programmes directly into Ayushman Bharat packages.
Experts Recommend Strengthening Early Diagnosis
As per The Economic Times, experts emphasise that expanding diagnostic and screening support under the scheme could significantly improve outcomes. Integrating cancer screening with Health and Wellness Centres under the National Health Mission may help detect cases earlier and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
Early detection not only increases survival rates but also reduces the economic burden on families and the healthcare system. By identifying cancer at an earlier stage, doctors can provide less intensive and more effective treatments.
Policy Measures and Future Directions
The government has already taken some steps to strengthen cancer care infrastructure. For instance, the Union Budget announced plans to establish 200 new day-care cancer centres in district hospitals, which will expand access to treatment across the country. Additionally, authorities have reduced customs duties on several life-saving cancer drugs to make treatment more affordable.
However, experts believe that policymakers must continue improving coverage by including diagnostics, screening, and long-term follow-up care in the insurance framework.
Conclusion
Ayushman Bharat has significantly improved access to cancer treatment and reduced financial barriers for many patients in India. Nevertheless, the programme still needs to expand its focus beyond hospital treatment to include early diagnosis and comprehensive cancer care. By integrating screening, diagnostics, and long-term support into the scheme, India can improve survival rates, reduce healthcare costs, and move closer to universal health coverage.