Covid-19 Impact: Healthcare facilities in India witness 80% fall in demand

Team L&M

90% healthcare facilities are facing financial challenges with 21% facilities facing existential threat

NATHEALTH conducted a detailed survey with small and medium sized healthcare facilities across the country to understand the major challenges and identify areas of intervention needed. Post the lockdown from March 24, Indian hospitals have seen a large impact, especially among small and medium-sized hospitals, which are now facing existential challenges. The survey was conducted in 251 healthcare facilities across nine states and 69 cities to assess the impact of Covid-19 on the Indian healthcare industry.

The results show an average fall in revenue by as much as 80%. A total of 90% of the surveyed healthcare facilities are facing financial challenges with 21% facilities facing existential threat. Hospitals in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities are experiencing 78% reduction in OPD footfalls, and a drop of 79% in in-patient admissions. 90% of organizations surveyed require some form of financial assistance.

Key findings from respondent hospitals tabulated below:

Key challenges faced by hospitals	Metro- Tier 1	Tier 2 and Below	Large Facilities	Medium & Small Facilities
Reduction in Patient Flow	88%	77%	80%	83%
Lack of clarity on patient-handling protocols	38%	49%	36%	47%
Supply of PPEs	41%	52%	51%	56%
Supply of medical consumables	26%	23%	28%	23%
Medicines supply	12%	12%	16%	9%
Availability of nurse	35%	36%	32%	37%
Availability of support staff	21%	10%	19%	13%

The survey findings indicate that  even after the lockdown lift, the situation will remain difficult for the hospitals and nursing homes as patients will hesitate from visiting hospitals. Hospitals are working towards adapting to modern healthcare techniques and are providing consultation through telemedicine, but the problem related to OPD footfall will remain for some time. The other challenge of increase in cost of operations is also a major concern given more stringent hygiene and containment requirements post Covid-19.

The survey respondents also provided key recommendations to revive the industry in an effective manner and for smoother hospital operations without supply chain disruptions. The recommendations propose that the Government of India along with state governments should support the sector by providing easier financing and direct and indirect taxation support to this capital-intensive sector in the frontline of Covid-19. The sector needs to scale up in a high cost environment with dipping demand in all elective and non Covid-19 procedures.

Photograph is for representational purpose only