The Maharashtra government has made it mandatory for private hospitals, clinics and other medical establishments across the state to prominently display the rates of medical services and facilities in both Marathi and English. The move aims to curb overcharging, improve billing transparency and reduce disputes between healthcare providers and patients. In a Government Resolution (GR) issued on Friday, the state public health department directed hospitals to comply with the requirement. Authorities will take administrative and legal action against establishments that violate the rules. The GR states that hospitals must prominently display the rates of medical services and available facilities specified under Schedule III of the Maharashtra Nursing Homes Registration Rules, 2021, in locations easily visible to visitors.
Hospitals Must Display and Update Treatment Rates
Under the new directive, hospitals must display rate lists in Marathi and English at prominent, clearly visible and easily accessible locations within their premises. Furthermore, they must update these lists immediately whenever they revise their charges. The government expects this measure to help patients and their relatives understand the likely cost of treatment in advance. As a result, patients can make informed healthcare decisions, plan their medical expenses and avoid confusion or complaints arising from unexpected bills. Hospitals must also provide clear information about applicable service charges and treatment package costs to address billing-related concerns.
Staff Must Inform Patients About Applicable Charges
To improve communication and prevent billing disputes, the government has directed hospital staff at registration desks, enquiry counters and billing counters to guide patients and their relatives about the displayed rate lists and applicable charges. This requirement will help patients access essential pricing information more easily and understand the costs associated with medical services before proceeding with treatment.
Special Treatment Packages for Foreign Patients
The directive also requires hospitals to display special package rates for foreign patients visiting India on medical or Ayush visas. This measure aims to improve pricing transparency for international patients seeking treatment at medical establishments across Maharashtra.
Authorities to Monitor Compliance and Enforce Rules
The GR instructs all competent authorities responsible for hospital registration, regulation and supervision to periodically review compliance with Schedule III of the Maharashtra Nursing Homes Registration Rules, 2021. Authorities must initiate appropriate administrative and legal action against establishments that fail to follow the prescribed requirements. In addition, district civil surgeons, district health officers and municipal health officers must inform private hospitals and other medical establishments within their jurisdictions about the directive and ensure its effective implementation.
Directive Follows Union Health Ministry Instructions
The public health department clarifaied that displaying hospital service rates was already mandatory. However, the latest directive reinforces the requirement following instructions issued by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on October 12. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, through this measure, the Maharashtra government aims to strengthen accountability in healthcare services, ensure greater transparency in hospital billing and help patients make better-informed decisions about treatment costs.