The Karnataka government has recently issued a circular announcing a hike in service fees at government hospitals under the Bengaluru Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI). This update impacts major hospitals such as Victoria Hospital, Vani Vilas Hospital, Minto Hospital, and the Trauma Care Center, where patients are now required to pay higher charges for medical services. The circular mandates immediate implementation of these fee revisions across the state.

As per the revised structure, the charges for outpatient department (OPD) registration have doubled, increasing from ₹10 to ₹20. Similarly, inpatient department (IPD) charges have risen from ₹25 to ₹50. These adjustments also extend to other medical services provided by government hospitals, with an overall increase of 10% to 15%. The BMCRI is the first to implement these changes, setting a precedent for other state-run medical facilities.

Health and Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao defended the fee hike, stating that it was a necessary measure due to inflation and the fact that the charges had remained unchanged for many years. He assured the public that the maximum increase is capped at 20%, arguing that the revisions are still affordable given the previously nominal fees. "For years, charges like ₹10 or ₹20 have not been revised, and this adjustment ensures hospitals can continue providing quality services," he stated.

However, the decision has sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some individuals have speculated that the increased fees are intended to fund government-guaranteed welfare schemes. Addressing these concerns, Minister Rao clarified that the adjustments are independent of such initiatives. He emphasized that the fee revisions are mandatory and aimed solely at maintaining financial sustainability for government hospitals. Rao also pointed out that similar measures were taken by the previous government, which increased charges for utilities such as water and electricity. He dismissed comparisons between these revisions, asserting that the changes in medical service fees are minor and will not impose a significant financial burden on the general population.

Despite the minister’s reassurances, the move has drawn criticism from patients and activists who argue that even slight increases could pose challenges for economically disadvantaged groups who rely on government hospitals for affordable healthcare. With fees for routine procedures and services now higher, many worry about the potential impact on access to essential care.

The Karnataka government insists that the hike is a necessary adjustment to cope with rising operational costs while ensuring service quality. However, the long-term impact of these changes on the state’s healthcare accessibility remains to be seen.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)