Journalist and author Neelesh Misra recently took to Twitter to express his concerns over the pricing of medicines at a hospital, suggesting that the hospital’s practices might be exploitative.

What Happened: In his tweet, Misra shared that his mother was admitted to Medanta Lucknow and pointed out that the cost of medicines at the hospital was significantly higher than market prices.

Labelling it as a “scam,” Misra highlighted the plight of individuals who had to sell land to afford treatment for their loved ones. He also mentioned that the hospital refuses to allow patients the choice of medicines from the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines from outside sources.

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Misra tagged the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in his tweet, drawing attention to the issue and seeking intervention.

Why It Matters: The affordability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount concerns for citizens. Misra’s tweet underscores the challenges many face when seeking medical treatment, especially in private healthcare institutions. The inability to opt for more affordable medication alternatives can place a significant financial burden on patients and their families.

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