Rajasthan passes Right to Health Bill

Rajasthan became the first state to pass in Assembly the Right to Health Bill, which gives every resident of the state the right to avail free Out Patient Department (OPD) services and In Patient Department (IPD) services at all public health facilities. Also, similar healthcare services will be provided free of cost at select private facilities.

The Bill was passed despite protests by the opposition BJP, which wanted to bring in certain changes to the provisions, as well as an agitation by a section of doctors, who have been demanding withdrawal of the legislation.

According to the Bill, free healthcare services, including consultation, drugs, diagnostics, emergency transport, procedure and emergency care, will be provided at all public health institutions and select private facilities subject to conditions specified in the rules, which will be formulated now.

Also, all residents will be entitled to emergency treatment and care for accidental emergency without prepayment of any fee or charges.