In battling Covid-19, government hospitals have been the only major systemic support in Telangana. With the State witnessing a growing number of cases, the healthcare system has come under severe stress.

The role of private hospitals has been minimal. Although nearly 100 private hospitals have been designated to provide Covid-19 treatment in the State, only 55% of them are currently offering services. All of these are in Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation limits, with none in other districts.

A recent report by an English-language daily says that the shortage of paramedics and nurses in private hospitals is a major drawback. Lack of insurance coverage for Covid-19 is another reason. Yet another reason is that doctors in private hospitals don't have insurance coverage. Above all, there seems to be a confusion over the "package rates" set by the government.

These factors have resulted in private hospitals being sub-optimal in the fight against the pandemic. It's for the system to resolve the outstanding issues.