Comprehensive Overview of National Health Account (NHA) Estimates for 2020-21 and 2021-22

Source- This post on the Comprehensive Overview of National Health Account (NHA) Estimates for 2020-21 and 2021-22 has been created based on the article “National Health Account (NHA) Estimates 2020-21 and 2021-22” published in “PIB” on 5th October 2024.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has released the eighth and ninth editions of the National Health Account (NHA) estimates for the fiscal years 2020-21 and 2021-22.

Major findings

1. Government Health Expenditure (GHE): GHE has steadily increased. GHE as a percentage of GDP rose from 1.13% in 2014-15 to 1.84% in 2021-22.  The share of GHE in General Government Expenditure (GGE) also increased.

2. Decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE): The share of Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) in the Total Health Expenditure (THE) dropped significantly, from 62.6% in 2014-15 to 39.4% in 2021-22. This reduction highlights the success of government measures aimed at expanding healthcare access and reducing financial burdens on households.

3. Increased Government Share in Total Health Expenditure (THE): The government’s contribution to THE increased from 29% in 2014-15 to 48% in 2021-22. This rise points to greater reliance on public health services and a reduced financial burden on citizens. The growth in GHE aligns with government efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and enhance financial protection.

4. Growth in Social Security Expenditure (SSE) on Health: Social Security Expenditure (SSE), which includes government-funded health insurance and medical reimbursements, increased from 5.7% of THE in 2014-15 to 8.7% in 2021-22. The increase in SSE is key to reducing out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring that healthcare access does not lead to financial hardship or poverty.

5. Distribution of Current Health Expenditure (CHE): In 2020-21, the Union Government contributed Rs. 81,772 crores (12.33% of CHE), and state governments contributed Rs. 1,38,944 crores (20.94%). Contributions from enterprises, NGOs, and external donors also played a crucial role in supporting India’s healthcare system during this period.

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