India is viewed favorably by medical tourists due to its affordable Healthcare and reasonably high standard of private hospitals. The government consistently prioritizes healthcare in its five-year plans, raising public awareness of the issue. The nation has undoubtedly made significant strides forward since its independence.

However, a more comprehensive review reveals that this accomplishment falls well short of that of nations like Bangladesh or Nepal. There are still significant disparities between the availability of healthcare facilities in urban and Rural Areas. This demonstrates the need for even greater progress by ensuring that the most fundamental healthcare services are accessible to everyone.

What steps is the government taking to ensure accessible healthcare?

The government is implementing new programmes and expanding the reach of the current ones. It is a part of its ongoing commitment to relieving financial burdens and giving the poor access to healthcare facilities.

The “Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras” scheme was created to make high-quality medications accessible to everyone. Also, at reasonable prices through exclusive stores.

One of the largest publicly sponsored healthcare programmes in the world is the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. It serves as the umbrella for the National Health Protection Scheme and Health and Wellness Centers. The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) programme essentially offers all-inclusive healthcare coverage. This is targeted at Central Government employees, retirees, and their families.

The loopholes

According to the WHO report, India came in at position 112 out of 191 nations, indicating that there is a need to address the problems in the healthcare sector.

Only 17% of government spending in India goes toward public healthcare. This is far less than what is spent in China, Sri Lanka, and the US.

Moreover, the current state of India’s health infrastructure is not encouraging. The stark difference between the availability of medical facilities in urban and rural areas only makes matters worse.

Also, the neglect of the Indian population in rural areas is a significant issue as well. Rural areas sometimes lack access to medical services since physicians and other medical professionals are generally unwilling to practice there.

The post How is Healthcare made affordable in India? appeared first on Dailyposts4u.