New Delhi: Healthcare costs in India are increasing at an annual rate of 14%, according to the ACKO India Health Insurance Index 2024. The report highlights that healthcare expenses continue to rise due to double-digit inflation in the sector. "Healthcare inflation in India has reached 14%," the report stated.

The index also revealed that 23% of hospital charges in the country are covered through borrowings, putting a heavy financial burden on families. With 62% of healthcare expenses paid out of pocket, the report emphasizes the need for better health insurance coverage to protect against unexpected medical emergencies.

The report pointed out that Delhi has become the leading city for kidney disease, with the highest share of health insurance claims related to kidney health. Kochi follows closely behind, reporting the second-highest number of claims for kidney-related conditions.

"Delhi has earned the title of kidney disease capital, with Kochi in second place. Delhi NCR reported the highest proportion of claims related to kidney health, while Kochi, Secunderabad, Bengaluru, and Jaipur also reported claims above the national average," the report mentioned.

The average age of patients filing claims for kidney and renal issues is 47 years, indicating a significant health concern for this age group. The report also highlighted the largest bill filed last year for kidney-related treatment, which amounted to Rs 24,73,894, showing the immense financial burden these conditions place on families.

Beyond kidney diseases, the report shed light on other major health concerns, including heart disease. It revealed that Kolkata and Mumbai had the highest claims for heart-related conditions, with a notable rise in hospitalizations for heart issues among individuals aged 31 to 50.

"Kolkata and Mumbai topped the charts for circulatory system disorders like heart attacks," the report added.

The index also reported concerning trends in cancer cases, predicting a 13% increase in the incidence of cancer between 2020 and 2025.

In response to these healthcare challenges, the Indian government has introduced various schemes to improve healthcare access. On September 11, the Union Cabinet approved health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of income, under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).

With this approval, all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of their socio-economic status, will receive the benefits of the scheme. AB PM-JAY is the world's largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, offering health coverage of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalizations. The scheme covers all members of eligible families, regardless of age.