A parliamentary standing committee on health has proposed a series of measures aimed at controlling rising medical expenses and making private healthcare costs more transparent.

Among its recommendations is a proposal to benchmark room rents at private hospitals against rates charged by three-star hotels. The panel has also suggested separate billing for resident doctors, nursing care, consumables, meals and laundry services.

The committee cited National Sample Survey data highlighting the significant difference in hospitalization costs between government and private hospitals, with average expenses reported at around ₹6,600 in government hospitals compared with more than ₹50,000 in private facilities.

The panel has also called for a legal mechanism to standardize and cap charges for essential treatments and routine procedures at private hospitals. It recommended standard package rates for surgical procedures and mandatory disclosure of treatment costs before admission.

Private Hospital Bills May Face New Limits as Parliamentary Panel Recommends Major Reforms

H1N1 influenza cases are rising sharply in Delhi, with more than 1,300 cases reportedly recorded in the national capital, nearly six times the number reported during the same period last year.

Doctors say most H1N1 infections are generally mild, with fever often subsiding within three to five days. However, elderly people, children and those with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease may face a higher risk of complications.

Common symptoms include sore throat, nasal discharge, dry cough, headache and fever. Health authorities have advised affected individuals to isolate at home, wear masks and follow basic hygiene precautions.

The government has also issued a public advisory urging people to cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, wash their hands regularly, avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth, and stay away from crowded places when symptomatic.

People have also been advised not to take medicines without consulting a doctor and to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, particularly in cases of high fever, breathing difficulties, bluish skin or lips, or blood in the sputum.

H1N1 Cases Surge in Delhi: Over 1,300 Infections Reported as Doctors Warn High-Risk Groups

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Private Hospital Bills May Face New Limits as Parliamentary Panel Recommends Major Reforms

H1N1 Cases Surge in Delhi: Over 1,300 Infections Reported as Doctors Warn High-Risk Groups