23/07/2026
FREE TREATMENT FOR POOR PATIENTS IN PRIVATE HOSPITALS ALLOTTED GOVERNMENT LAND
As reported in The Indian Express (22.07.2026), the Telangana High Court has reaffirmed that private hospitals which received government land at concessional rates are legally obligated to provide free treatment to poor patients.
This obligation arises from:
G.O. Ms. No. 434, Revenue (Assignment-III) Department, dated 26.05.1989
G.O. Ms. No. 80, Health, Medical & Family Welfare Department, dated 16.07.2022
These Government Orders require such hospitals to reserve:
25% of inpatient (IP) beds for free treatment to poor patients.
40% of outpatient (OP) services free of cost.
Important: This right is independent of the Aarogyasri Scheme. A poor patient cannot be denied treatment merely because the disease is not covered under Aarogyasri.
In the case of Bhagyamma from Karimnagar, who was suffering from breast cancer, the Telangana High Court directed the concerned hospital to immediately admit her and provide all necessary treatment. The Court also directed the District Medical & Health Officer, Hyderabad, to monitor compliance and submit a report.
Public Awareness: If a private hospital that has received government land at concessional rates refuses free treatment to an eligible poor patient, the patient may approach the District Medical & Health Officer or seek appropriate legal remedies before the High Court.
Adv. Galibe Vishal
Member, HDC – ESIS Hospital, Nacharam
RLD General Secretary
