Ms. Anupriya Singh Patel, Hon’ble Minister of State for Health addressed the 11th CII Health Insurance Summit and emphasised that the government is very keen that health insurance infrastructure ramps up to keep pace with the exceptional double-digit growth of the sector. Referring to the newly released National Health Policy 2017, she reminded the insurance industry of the need for accessible, affordable and quality healthcare for all.
Specifically asking for ‘insurance products for the masses’, she asked industry to develop sustainable, simple solutions for the need of India’s citizens, a large majority of whom are without any insurance. The Government is committed to not just adopting sustainable practices at the Union Government level but to also percolate the same to state levels. She mentioned that National Health Policy 2017 articulates Government’s vision and one very important aspect of the same relates to the National Health Protection Scheme which is work in progress. She also emphasised on the need for educating citizens regarding health insurance and its many advantages. Support from private players is also needed. She also noted that healthcare industry needs to adopt standard treatment guidelines for better outcomes and efficiency.
Speaking in the occasion, Mr. Suresh Mathur, Executive Director – IRDAI lauded the fact that the Regulator and Insurance Industry are collaborating very well for the benefit of insured population. He emphasised that the Health Regulations brought by IRDAI and recognition of Health Insurance as a separate class of business will provide the necessary impetus to further promote industry growth.
Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman, CII Healthcare Council, in his special address noted a healthy dialogue has been initiated between various stakeholders in the eco system and the future efforts need to be in the direction of controlling frauds and gaining traction for the health insurance sector in the higher echelons of the government.
The conference emphasised the need for health insurance industry, healthcare providers and citizen groups to work together to develop sustainable solutions for the country.
9 November 2017
New Delhi