Cancer Drug Price Gouging Admitted By Indian Government In Supreme Court

Aaj Tak · health

The Indian government has admitted in the Supreme Court that hospitals are overcharging patients for cancer medicines and other medical supplies. The Centre stated that patients are often forced to pay exorbitant prices due to unequal bargaining power. To address this, the government has proposed limiting the trade margin on non-scheduled cancer drugs to 30% of the MRP. This move is estimated to reduce drug prices by 20-70%, potentially saving patients around ₹2,500 crore annually. Discussions are ongoing with stakeholders to formulate appropriate regulations.