The Competition Commission of Mauritius (CCM) has initiated an investigation into the private healthcare market, citing concerns that certain market characteristics may be hindering effective competition. The probe, launched in April 2026, aims to examine the concentration of the market, which is dominated by three major clinics, one of which controls approximately half of the market share. This concentration has raised concerns about the potential impact on consumers.
The CCM is also scrutinizing the commercial relationships between clinics and insurers, which may be unbalanced and have repercussions on insurance premiums, coverage, and ultimately, the costs borne by insured and uninsured individuals. The investigation will also focus on preferred provider networks, which may limit access to patients for smaller clinics. Furthermore, the commission will examine the financial incentives offered to doctors by clinics, which may influence patient decisions and increase diagnostic and treatment costs.
The private healthcare market in Mauritius is highly concentrated, with one major operator holding around 50% of the market share. Data from the CCM shows a significant increase in costs, with doctor fees rising by 65% and clinic fees by 41% between January 2020 and January 2026, compared to a general inflation rate of around 35% over the same period. In 2023, private healthcare expenditure reached Rs 19 billion, accounting for 53% of total healthcare spending, with households directly bearing 84% of these costs.
The CCM has called for an independent medical expert to assist in the investigation, who will contribute to the analysis of clinical practices and market dynamics. The expert will focus on issues such as transparency of tariffs and success rates of procedures, highlighting a lack of information that limits patients' ability to make informed choices. The investigation is expected to conclude with the publication of a final report in October 2027.
The private healthcare market inquiry follows concerns that certain market characteristics may be hindering effective competition, ultimately affecting consumers. The CCM's investigation aims to identify potential anti-competitive practices and propose recommendations to promote a more competitive and equitable market. The inquiry will also examine the impact of market concentration on the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.
The concentration of the market has raised concerns about the potential for anti-competitive practices, such as collusion or exclusionary conduct. The CCM will investigate whether the dominant clinics have engaged in practices that may limit competition, such as predatory pricing or exclusive agreements with insurers. The investigation will also examine the role of preferred provider networks in limiting access to patients for smaller clinics.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to have significant implications for the private healthcare market in Mauritius. If anti-competitive practices are identified, the CCM may impose penalties or require clinics to modify their business practices. The investigation may also lead to recommendations for regulatory changes or policy reforms to promote greater competition and transparency in the market.
Key points
- The CCM's investigation into the private healthcare market aims to promote effective competition and address concerns over market concentration and its impact on consumers.
