National Health Accounts 2022–23: Insights into Healthcare Financing and Universal Health Coverage in India

Health financing is a critical determinant of healthcare accessibility, equity, and quality within any healthcare system. The National Health Accounts (NHA) Estimates for India 2022–23 provide comprehensive information regarding healthcare expenditure patterns, financing mechanisms, healthcare providers, and utilisation of health services in India. This review article examines the major findings of the NHA 2022–23 report and discusses their implications for public health policy and Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The report indicates that the Current Health Expenditure (CHE) in India was ₹7,66,814 crores, with Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) accounting for 49.9% of CHE, reflecting persistent financial burden on households. Government Health Expenditure constituted 43.72% of Total Health Expenditure, demonstrating gradual improvement in public financing. Private hospitals and pharmacies accounted for substantial proportions of healthcare expenditure, highlighting continued dependence on the private sector and medicine-related spending. Preventive healthcare expenditure remained relatively low, indicating greater emphasis on curative services. Expansion of government insurance schemes and strengthening of primary healthcare services have contributed to improved financial protection; however, significant challenges related to healthcare inequity, high OOPE, and inadequate public investment remain. Strengthening public healthcare infrastructure, increasing preventive healthcare expenditure, and expanding financial risk protection are essential for achieving equitable and sustainable healthcare delivery in India.