In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.
In a domain as critical as public healthcare, the Indian State's vital role in containing the adverse impact of marketisation cannot be overstated. Unbridled market forces can lead to healthcare becoming inaccessible and unaffordable for the masses, exacerbating inequalities. The State must step in to ensure healthcare is a right, not a commodity. Marketisation often prioritizes profits over patient welfare, leading to exorbitant costs, over-diagnosis, and neglecting preventive or primary care in favor of high-cost tertiary care.
To enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level, the State can adopt several measures. Firstly, significantly increase public health spending as a percentage of GDP to strengthen infrastructure, human resources, and medical supplies at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs). Secondly, reinforce the public health workforce by recruiting more doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff, especially in rural and remote areas, incentivizing them through better pay and facilities. Thirdly, leverage technology for telemedicine, digital health records, and mobile health units to bridge geographical gaps and improve outreach. Fourthly, implement robust preventive and promotional health programs focusing on sanitation, nutrition, and early disease detection, engaging local communities and ASHA workers. Lastly, establish an effective referral system linking grassroots healthcare to higher facilities, ensuring seamless continuity of care, and strengthening public-private partnerships where the State sets the terms to maintain affordability and quality.
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Sarvesh Jha
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