The perils of a health system that relies overwhelmingly on a curative rather than a preventive approach are evident from the trajectory of Andhra Pradesh’s Aarogyashri budget. In 2008-2009, when the scheme was launched in undivided Andhra Pradesh, its budget was Rs 30 lakh. In 2023, Andhra Pradesh had allocated Rs 2,400 crore. This is not to argue that insurance schemes are not needed, but unless supplemented by strategic primary care spending, the bill will balloon.