Budget 2026: Healthcare Sector Demands Structural Reforms, Not Just Fund Hikes

• Healthcare sector seeks structural changes in Budget 2026, aiming to bridge the gap to 2.5% GDP health expenditure target.
• Industry demands incentives for infrastructure development in Tier-2, Tier-3 cities and villages, moving beyond metro-centric growth.
• Expectations include affordable funding, quick approvals, realistic reimbursement structures, and new PPP model incentives for remote healthcare.
• Calls to expand PMJAY's scope, reduce GST on health insurance and medicines, and increase the tax deduction limit for preventive health check-ups.
• Increased allocation for Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana is sought to combat TB, aiming to meet the 2025 target of 44 cases per lakh.

Why It Matters: Healthcare sector urges Budget 2026 for structural reforms, decentralization, and scheme expansion for a healthier India.