An official statement by the Health Ministry said, “The existing multi-tier decision-making structure has been replaced with the governing board chaired by the Union Minister of Health which will enable decision-making at a faster pace, required for smooth implementation of the scheme.”
The statement also mentioned that no new funds will be assigned for the new healthcare body. Instead, the existing budget that was approved earlier by the cabinet for National Health Agency, including costs related to IT, human resources, infrastructure, and operational funds would be available for utilisation by the National Health Authority.
The NHA will work alongside the insurance regulatory body and shall have full accountability and authority to implement the scheme through an efficient, effective and transparent decision-making process. It will also be responsible for setting the bar on premium amounts and purchasing healthcare from the private sector without favouring any one entity or depleting the public exchequer.
The Health Minister of India, Mr. J.P. Nadda praised the move saying, “The world’s largest healthcare scheme rightfully deserves the most efficient and effective governance structure with total accountability.”