IRDAI 2024 Pushes for Robotic Surgeries, Surgeons Urge Coverage

The IRDAI 2024 regulation making insurance coverage for robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) mandatory, top surgical societies in India are urging uniform implementation across health insurance companies to facilitate wider patient access and financial coverage.

Dr. Vivek Bindal, president of Clinical Robotic Surgery Association (India Chapter), reiterated the revolutionary power that robotic technology brings to surgery. "Robotic surgery not only improves clinical outcomes but also improves patient experience with faster recovery and decreased complications," he said. He also quoted that real-world evidence and observational studies take into account RAS outcomes based on decreased recurrence rate, decreased blood transfusion, and decreased mortality.

Still, many patients have to face varying claim sanctions, sub-limits, and ceilings by different insurance providers. "Robotic surgery is becoming mainstream in India's hospitals, and insurance models need to keep pace," emphasized Dr. Bindal.

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Dr. Rooma Sinha, Association of Gynaecological Robotic Surgeons, India, founder president, emphasized the role of RAS in women's health. "Robotic-assisted surgery has some benefits over minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery in gynaecologic procedures, ranging from reduced tissue trauma to easier recovery. RAS can never be confused with routine laparoscopy," she explained.

Dr. Randeep Wadhawan, president of the Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society of India, said that despite the insurance barriers, patients are opting for robotic surgeries because of better results. "This is increasing demand based on awareness and satisfaction," he said.

The experts agreed that combined efforts by insurers, providers, and policymakers are required to ensure that RAS is integrated into India's mainstream surgery care in a fair and effective manner.