CGHS-Rate-Based Private Healthcare Services in Bihar

The Government of Bihar has adopted an innovative Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model to address critical gaps in healthcare by collaborating with a reputed private hospital under a pre-existing contract. Through this arrangement, selected beneficiaries receive treatment at Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) rates, with the state reimbursing the costs of critical illness treatment for below-poverty-line (BPL) patients. While this initiative has improved access for some, its limited coverage raises concerns about equity, especially in a state where the majority of the population remains poor. The model unintentionally privileges a narrow group, highlighting the need to extend CGHS-like pricing structures more universally. This article critically examines the scheme's equity and efficiency dimensions, drawing on Bihar’s healthcare indicators. It identifies possible key challenges such as administrative complexity and sustainability, and recommends expanding the model, harmonising tariff structures, and strengthening oversight

Equity (law · General partnership · Government (linguistics · Health care · Key (lock · Population · Private sector · Public–private partnership · Tariff · Local Government Finance and Decentralization · Public-Private Partnership Projects · Social and Economic Development in India