The issue of regulation of doctors and private hospitals is one that is increasingly becoming important for the citizen. The attempts by professional medical associations to scuttle the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act of 2010 is the context for this essay on the issues that afflict the provision of private healthcare. After a critical discussion of all the major issues, the essay outlines what needs to be done to prevent and address the malpractices and abuses that are widely prevalent in the country.

The National Pharmaceuticals Pricing Policy 2012 has a new method for determining the price ceiling, called a market-based pricing mechanism. This is problematic, to say the least. It can create the illusion of regulating prices without actually doing so, and will have no impact on other members of the same therapeutic class outside the National List of Essential Medicines or on existing fi xed dose combinations, rational and irrational. It will reduce the prices of certain top brands, but not close potential escape routes for good.

The Planning Commission’s High Level Expert Group has given its provisional progress report on developing a framework for universal health coverage. Its mandate is to suggest a strategy for universal health coverage rather than a universal healthcare system. The latter would be geared to a progressive socialisation of healthcare based on human rights.

This article chronicles the peaceful struggle and eventual success of the people of Alibag, Maharashtra, against the attempts by corporate bodies, with the help of the state government, to grab land f