The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Coimbatore Branch Office, organised a technical discussion programme titled “Manak Manthan” on the draft Indian Standard, “Requirements and Recommendations for Template / Format of Hospital Bills” (WC Draft – SSD 05:27799), in Coimbatore on October 30, 2025. The programme aimed to elicit expert views and stakeholder feedback for the formulation of a uniform and transparent hospital billing standard. The programme was attended by 120 participants including doctors, surgeons, other representatives from hospitals, diagnostic centres, insurance companies, government departments, and other stakeholders.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. V. Sumathi, Joint Director, Medical and Rural Health Services, Coimbatore, who, in her inaugural address, underscored the need for standardization in healthcare documentation to ensure legal validity and reduce potential litigation. She further observed that a standardized billing framework would enable the Government to frame effective and evidence-based healthcare policies.
Delivering the Welcome Address, Smt. G. Bhavani, Scientist-F and Senior Director & Head, BIS Coimbatore Branch Office, emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in the standard formulation process and highlighted the role of standards in enhancing transparency and consumer confidence in the healthcare sector.
Shri Udham Singh, Scientist-C, BIS Headquarters, presented the salient features of the proposed draft Indian Standard and explained its structure and scope. Ms. R. Jyotsna Priya, Scientist-C, BIS Coimbatore Branch Office, made a presentation on the activities of BIS, the process of standard formulation, and the BIS Care mobile application, encouraging stakeholders to actively participate in BIS initiatives.
An interactive open-house session followed, during which participants offered valuable suggestions and comments on the draft standard.
Through such Manak Manthan programmes, the Bureau of Indian Standards continues to promote an inclusive and consultative approach to standardization, fostering transparency, accountability, and quality across critical sectors of national importance.