A coating composition is disclosed which comprises an aqueous polymeric matrix, a hydrophilic polymer, a colloidal metal oxide and a crosslinker. The coating composition when applied on medical devices is hydrophilic, shows improved lubricity, abrasion resistance and substrate adhesion on metallic or plastic substrates. The coating also shows improved water sheeting thus providing the coated substrates with anti-fog properties. The coating absorbs aqueous dye or stain solutions making the substrate suitable for printing.