The impact of private equity investments in Indian healthcare: a critical political economy perspective on equity, access, and rising health costs

The Indian healthcare sector has undergone significant transformations due to private equity (PE) investments. The influx of capital has facilitated the expansion of infrastructure and improvement in services, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas. However, this transformation raises critical concerns regarding equity in healthcare access, rising health costs, and the potential commercialization of healthcare services. Employing a critical political economy approach, this study examines the effects of PE investments in Indian healthcare. It integrates theories from Antonio Gramsci, David Harvey and Nancy Fraser to analyze the implications of these investments. The research draws on secondary data from industry reports, government statistics and academic literature to assess the trends, impacts and policy responses related to PE in healthcare. PE investments have led to increased privatization, rising healthcare costs and a focus on profit-driven models. Despite expanding infrastructure, access to quality healthcare remains inequitable, particularly for marginalized and rural populations. The analysis highlights the tension between capital accumulation and public health needs, showing how PE investments prioritize profitability over equity. The commodification of healthcare reflects broader neoliberal policies that undermine public health objectives and exacerbate inequalities. While PE investments drive innovation and expansion, they also pose challenges to affordability and equitable access. Policy interventions are necessary to regulate PE investments and ensure that healthcare remains accessible and equitable for all.