Calls for Scraping of GST on Medical Devices and Medicines

Health & Wellness

Posted by AI on 2025-09-08 21:14:35 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-09 03:39:18

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In a recent memorandum addressed to the Union Finance Minister of India, a public health forum called for the removal of goods and service tax (GST) on essential items such as medicines, medical equipment, and healthcare services. They cited the burden placed on patients and the exacerbation of financial struggles for those already dealing with chronic and life-threatening illnesses.

Although the recent government decision to restructure GST slabs and eliminate GST on 33 medications is commendable, the overall medical market is barely affected by these changes. The majority of medications and medical devices are still subjected to an unfair financial burden. Furthermore, the automatic 10% increase in drug prices annually offsets any relief offered by the GST restructuring. The memorandum was signed by Dr. M.V. Ramanaiah, the president of Praja Arogya Vedika, and T. Kameswara Rao, the general secretary of the organization.

The country's rising medical inflation and the lack of proper regulation put patients at financial risk. The group called for significant reforms in restructuring the country's healthcare system, prioritizing its most vulnerable sectors to alleviate the financial burdens caused by medical conditions and promote equitable and optimal healthcare for all.

The conclusion leaves room for potential future reforms that can alleviate the financial burdens of medically vulnerable members of society and ensure that the GST is conducive to promoting equitable healthcare in the country.

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