NSO 80th Round Survey on Household Social Consumption on Health

 Why in the News?
The National Statistical Office (NSO) has released findings from its 80th Round Household Consumption: Health Survey, highlighting improved healthcare access, rising utilisation of public facilities, and expanded insurance coverage in India.

Key Findings

• Median Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) per hospitalisation in 2025 stands at ₹11,285, indicating relatively moderate costs for a majority of cases.
• In public health facilities, OOPE for over half of hospitalisations is as low as ₹1,100.
• Proportion of Population Reporting Ailments (PPRA) has increased significantly—reflecting improved awareness and health-seeking behaviour.
• Public healthcare utilisation in rural outpatient care has increased from 28% (2014) to 35% (2025).
• Health insurance coverage has risen sharply—from 12.9% to 45.5% in rural areas and 8.9% to 31.8% in urban areas.

Government Initiatives Supporting the Trend

• Free Drugs Service Initiative and Free Diagnostics Initiative (launched in 2015) ensure free medicines and diagnostic services.
• Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment provides discounted medicines (up to 50%) through 220+ pharmacies across India.

Significance
The findings indicate a positive shift toward accessible and affordable healthcare, with increased reliance on public health systems. Higher insurance coverage and reduced OOPE suggest progress toward universal health coverage and financial protection for citizens.

Source: PIB