Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has reiterated the state government's commitment to universal healthcare access, underscoring a policy that aims to ensure medical treatment is available regardless of an individual’s ability to pay.
The statement came at the inauguration ceremony marking the Silver Jubilee of E.M.S Memorial Co-operative Hospital in Perinthalmanna.
The government has positioned free and affordable healthcare services as a cornerstone of its policy, building on long-standing schemes that offer financial protection to patients. 
Kerala’s public health model has historically garnered national recognition for its extensive coverage. Integrated insurance programmes such as Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi (KASP) provide free treatment in empanelled government and private hospitals, covering pre- and post-hospitalisation care for enrolled families without preferential criteria. Under these schemes, state spending on free medical services has run into thousands of crores, with millions benefiting from subsidised or no-cost treatment. 
The government’s commitment to universal healthcare comes amid widespread debate over the future direction of the system. Opposition parties, including the United Democratic Front (UDF), have made health policy a key issue in their election campaigns, calling for further reforms and enhanced service delivery to address perceived gaps in infrastructure and staffing. 
Kerala’s public health achievements are reflected in key health indicators. The state’s infant mortality rate stands among the lowest in the country and compares favourably with developed nations, underscoring longstanding investments in preventive and primary care.
