Chandigarh: Punjab health minister Balbir Singh on Saturday urged private hospitals to reserve at least 20% of beds under govt schemes to ensure affordable patient care for all.Terming health a fundamental right and emphasising the need to make quality healthcare accessible to all, the minister said stronger collaboration between the govt and corporate healthcare providers was essential to ensure universal and equitable healthcare services.Addressing a session titled ‘Hospitals and Healthcare’ on the second day of the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026, Balbir Singh highlighted the state govt’s efforts to reduce disparities in healthcare access between rural and urban areas through the expansion of Aam Aadmi Clinics. “Punjab established 565 clinics in villages and 318 in urban areas, particularly in underprivileged localities. Our aim is to provide world-class healthcare facilities to the remotest areas across the state,” he said.Calling upon corporate hospitals to contribute to the vision of universal healthcare — Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna — the minister said: “At least 20% of beds in private hospitals should be reserved for patients who cannot afford treatment. These services need not always be free, as hospitals can receive compensation through govt health schemes, ensuring they do not incur losses while supporting the needy.”MSID:: 129576176 413 |
