Delhi Respiratory Health Crisis: Economy, Health Systems, on Brink of Collapse amid Rising Pollution

A recent joint report by Medi Assist, a health benefits administrator, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), has shown that respiratory health claims in Delhi have rose by 8.3% between FY23 and FY25, with a year-on-year increase of 10-12%. This alarming trend is largely attributed to the growing impact of pollution-related illnesses on urban populations.

The Indian capital city, along with Maharashtra, witnessed an unprecedented spike in respiratory disorders, according to the report, drawing a stark correlation between pollution levels and health. The high number of claims highlights the dire situation faced by urban areas in India where air quality has become a pressing concern.

In light of this alarming rise, Medialist and BCG introduced the innovative Borderless Health framework at the Raksha Summit 2024 in Mumbai last week, aiming to address healthcare disparities through technology-driven approach. The model – consisting of Health JAM, comprising joined records digitization, AI-process Automation and mobile-enabled access – seeks to tackle issues such as limited investments, low insurance coverage and curative-versus-preventive care imbalance.

According to an official from Medi Assist, India can develop a unified healthcare system meeting the unique needs of its diverse population by 2047. The CEO stressed the need for enhanced collaborative efforts among policymakers, providers and insurers.

However, experts are pointing out that the growing air pollution crisis has serious repercussions on both socioeconomic aspects and overall public health system in the nation.

The impact is evident across all aspects, affecting business and operations – companies are considering flexible work policies to save operational costs. This, in turn, affects productivity rates while also increasing disease burdens related non-communicable diseases for insurance providers.

Economic figures have grown significantly as a result of this pollution which also has implications on the nation's economic structure.  Experts warn that businesses and professionals need to consider relocating cities with better living conditions before it is too late.

Healthcare systems, meanwhile, are scrambling to keep up with rising patient volumes. "Pollution levels are a significant challenge to healthcare systems," stated Dr VS Chauhan of Prakash Hospital.