Ayurveda industry has urged the Central government to consider covering all traditional system of medicines for health insurance policies of the country. The demand comes in the wake of repeated neglect of this sector by the medical and insurance companies in the country which is discouraging patients from opting treatment through traditional systems.

Surprisingly, the Ayurveda industry even with a turnover of about Rs. 8000 crore is still not included in any mediclaim cover for treatment options either during or post hospitalisation. Only allopathic form of treatment is covered under the various health insurance policies and traditional treatment regimens like Ayurveda, Sidhha, Unani and Homoeopathy have been excluded from all the schemes.

Some experts point out that it is disturbing how the insurance companies have been deliberately trying to exclude the sector by not covering it under any insurance policies, forcing many patients to choose allopathic treatment only. Some top industry bodies such as Ayurvedic Drug Manufacturers Association (ADMA), Gujarat Ayurvedic Aushadh Manufacturers Association (GAMMA) are seriously considering to take up this matter with the Department of Ayush and the finance minister.

ADMA stressed that it is high time the government acted on this matter as it is affecting the healthcare needs of the patients. Chandrakanth Bhanushali, general secretary, ADMA said, “Though there have been tall claims made by many insurance companies on their future plans to cover alternative forms of treatment, like Ayurveda, hardly any steps have been taken towards this. Unfortunately, this clearly points out towards a discriminating attitude of the insurance companies towards the industry leading to lack of recognition of the values and importance of the Indian system of medicines.”

The traditional system of medicines consisting of ayurveda, siddha, unani and homoeopathy have been practised in the country for several years. These treatment options are not only more effective than the allopathic and other available treatment options with no side effects but are also far more affordable to the patients as well.

Prabodh Shah, president, GAAMA, stressed, “We strongly believe that the government should play an active role in initiating the process by involving the traditional system of medicines in various insurance policies. Especially, since it will be a huge relief to the patients who are willing to spend from the pocket for availing treatment option from this stream. Such a step will not only give a huge boost to the growth of the industry but also will ensure that the patients get the choice of choosing their own preferred treatment option rather than worrying about treatment expenditure.”