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KOLKATA — In a significant move aimed at increasing transparency and regulation within the healthcare sector, the West Bengal Assembly on Tuesday passed the West Bengal Clinical Establishments (Registration, Regulation and Transparency) (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The new legislation requires all clinical establishments in the state to prominently display fixed rates and package charges at a conspicuous location within their premises.
The bill, introduced by Minister of State for Health Chandrima Bhattacharya, also mandates that private hospitals and nursing homes maintain electronic medical records for each patient using approved software. Additionally, clinical establishments must provide proper estimates of all treatment charges not covered by fixed packages to patients or their families before treatment begins. The law stipulates that every establishment must strictly adhere to the displayed rates for investigations, bed charges, and operation theatre procedures.
Hospital associations have welcomed the legislation, highlighting its potential to foster transparency and reduce misunderstandings over treatment costs. Rupak Barua, managing director and CEO of Woodlands Hospital and president of the Association of Hospitals of Eastern India, described the bill as a “very good initiative” but cautioned that medical treatment is dynamic and may not always follow a set pattern. He suggested that cases where treatment costs exceed package rates should be reviewed “unbiasedly and scientifically”.
However, the bill has drawn criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Suvendu Adhikari, leader of the opposition, argued that the legislation should have included provisions for the safety and security of doctors and nurses, especially in light of recent incidents such as the RG Kar Hospital rape and murder case. Adhikari also expressed concerns about the feasibility of implementing electronic records and e-budgets in smaller private hospitals and nursing homes in the districts, warning that the new requirements could drive more patients out of the state for medical treatment.
The amended bill is seen as a step forward in regulating the cost of treatment and preventing overcharging by private hospitals, with the broader goal of making healthcare more accessible and accountable for residents of West Bengal.
Disclaimer:
This news article is based on information available as of June 18, 2025, and relies on reports from reputable news sources. The content is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Readers are encouraged to verify details with official government communications or consult relevant authorities for the latest updates.
