In India, a new medical fundraiser is launched every 3 minutes. That adds up to around 480 fundraisers a day, and over 1.7 lakh every year. Most of these are to cover urgent medical costs. This alarming trend highlights a bigger issue — India’s healthcare financing system is broken.
The Crowdfunding Boom — A Sign of Desperation
Over the past decade, platforms like Ketto, Milaap, and ImpactGuru have seen a surge in medical fundraisers. Ketto’s data shows that more than 60% of their fundraisers are for health-related needs. These include cancer treatments, organ transplants, neonatal care, and accident recovery.
This rising dependence on crowdfunding shows that millions either lack health insurance or have coverage that doesn’t go far enough.
Why Indians Turn to Crowdfunding for Healthcare
Low Health Insurance Coverage
According to the IRDAI Annual Report 2022–23, only 37% of Indians have any kind of health insurance. Even among the insured, many only have basic plans with limits of ₹2–5 lakhs — far below what critical treatments actually cost.
Soaring Medical Costs
India’s medical inflation reached 14% in 2022 — one of the highest rates in the world. A single hospitalization for cancer or cardiac issues in a private hospital can easily cost ₹10–25 lakhs.
High Out-of-Pocket Spending
More than 55% of healthcare expenses in India are paid directly by patients (National Health Accounts 2020). This makes India one of the highest out-of-pocket spenders globally.
Emergencies Strike Without Warning
Most households are not financially prepared for sudden health crises. Without enough coverage, families often turn to the public for help — not by choice, but by necessity.
The Bigger Problem: Systemic Healthcare Risks
The flood of fundraisers reveals deeper cracks in our system:
- Financial collapse: A single medical emergency can drag low- and middle-income families below the poverty line.
- Loss of dignity: Publicly asking for funds adds emotional and mental strain during an already difficult time.
- An unsustainable model: Crowdfunding cannot support a nation of 1.4 billion people.
The Real Solution: Insurance First, Not Last
India needs a mindset shift — from reacting to medical costs to preparing in advance. Insurance must become the first line of defence.
Make Health Insurance a Basic Need
Health insurance should not be optional. Like savings or an emergency fund, it should be a non-negotiable part of every family’s financial plan. Everyone — regardless of income — needs access to reliable and adequate coverage.
Spread Awareness Across Every Corner
Many avoid insurance due to myths or lack of information. Awareness campaigns must:
- Explain how different insurance types work.
- Bust myths like “I’m too young to need insurance.”
- Promote early sign-ups when premiums are low.
Strengthen Government Schemes with Private Insurance
Programs like Ayushman Bharat help, but they don’t meet every need. Urban middle-class families, and those using private hospitals, still face huge bills. Private insurance should fill these gaps by offering:
- Higher coverage limits
- Access to top hospitals
- More treatment options
Improve Employer-Provided Coverage
Many employers offer group health policies — but often just the basics. Organizations should be encouraged to:
- Offer top-up plans and full family coverage
- Provide portable policies that continue after resignation or retirement
- Cover preventive and mental healthcare
Design Plans for SMEs and Informal Workers
Small businesses and gig workers are often excluded from formal health insurance. Tailored group insurance plans with affordable premiums and useful features can help cover this overlooked population.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Change the Story
One fundraiser every 3 minutes should not be our norm. It should be our wake-up call.
By investing in the right health insurance now, we can avoid emotional, financial, and physical distress later. We can protect our families, preserve our dignity, and make healthcare a right — not a desperate appeal.
At BeWealthy, we’re committed to helping you stay ready for the unexpected. Whether you need individual coverage, a family plan, or a group policy for your team, we’ve got your back. Let’s build a future where treatment is never out of reach — and peace of mind comes standard.
Be prepared. Be protected. BeWealthy.