Health Policies in India

 

Overview of Health Policies in India

India’s health policies aim to ensure the health and well-being of its citizens, particularly the vulnerable and underserved populations. Key aspects of these policies include the National Health Policy (NHP) and the commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

National Health Policy (NHP)

The National Health Policy serves as the blueprint for India’s healthcare system.

  1. Historical Background

    • The first NHP was introduced in 1983 to address the health challenges post-independence.
    • Revised in 2002 and 2017, it evolved to address emerging health concerns and the needs of the growing population.

  2. NHP 2017 Objectives

    • Health Equity: Focus on underserved regions and vulnerable populations.
    • Preventive Healthcare: Emphasis on prevention and early diagnosis.
    • Access to Quality Care: Improve access to affordable, quality healthcare.
    • Infrastructure Strengthening: Expansion of health facilities, especially in rural areas.
    • Human Resources Development: Training and deployment of health professionals.

  3. Key Highlights of NHP 2017

    • Increase in Public Expenditure: Target to spend 2.5% of GDP on health by 2025.
    • Digital Health Mission: Adoption of eHealth initiatives for better service delivery.
    • Community Participation: Involving local communities in healthcare decision-making.
    • Focus on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Address the growing burden of lifestyle-related diseases.
    • Health Insurance: Expand coverage for vulnerable groups through programs like Ayushman Bharat.

Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

Universal Health Coverage ensures that all individuals and communities receive essential health services without suffering financial hardship.

  1. Definition of UHC

  2. India’s Approach to UHC

    • Ayushman Bharat Scheme (2018):
      • Includes the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) for health insurance.
      • Establishment of Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) across the country for primary care.
    • Public Health Strengthening: Focus on robust public health infrastructure and human resource capacity.
    • Collaboration with Private Sector: Public-private partnerships to expand service reach.

  3. Challenges to UHC

    • Inadequate Funding: Public health expenditure remains low compared to global benchmarks.
    • Infrastructure Gaps: Shortage of health facilities in rural and remote areas.
    • Workforce Deficit: Need for more trained healthcare professionals.
    • Awareness: Lack of awareness among citizens about available services.

  4. Roadmap for UHC

    • Increase public health expenditure to meet UHC goals.
    • Strengthen primary healthcare services and ensure last-mile delivery.
    • Leverage technology and innovation for efficient healthcare delivery.
    • Promote health literacy and community engagement.


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