Chennai, Feb. 1 -- Healthcare professionals are eagerly awaiting the Union Budget 2026, with expectations centred around increased funding and reforms.

GEM Hospital Director P Senthilnathan on Sunday hoped for a boost in healthcare expenditure from 1.9% to 2.5% of GDP, aligning with the National Health Policy 2017 target.

"As we approach the budget announcement, those of us in the healthcare profession have specific expectations. To begin with, I am looking for a significant increase in healthcare spending as a percentage of our GDP. While it stood at 1.9% last year, the National Health Policy has set a target of 2.5% by 2025. I expect the government to bridge this gap so that the benefits of increased funding can reach everyone," P Sen...