Q. 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.

Model Answer:

Indian public healthcare system

The Indian public healthcare system faces significant challenges due to increasing marketization, necessitating a vital role for the state to mitigate adverse impacts and ensure equitable access. The government must strike a balance between market forces and public welfare to enhance healthcare reach at the grassroots level.

Key measures the state can implement include:

1. Strengthening Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs):
• Increase the number and improve the distribution of PHCs in rural and underserved areas.
• Ensure adequate staffing, equipment, and medicine supply in these centers.
• Implement regular quality audits and performance evaluations.

2. Leveraging Technology:
• Expand telemedicine services to connect remote areas with specialized healthcare providers.
• Implement e-health records for better patient management and data-driven policy decisions.
• Utilize mobile health applications for health education and remote monitoring.

3. Enhancing Community-based Healthcare:
• Increase the number of ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers and provide them with better training and resources.
• Strengthen the role of Anganwadi centers in providing basic health services and nutrition support.
• Promote community participation in health planning and monitoring.

4. Improving Health Infrastructure:
• Develop a tiered healthcare system with clear referral pathways from primary to tertiary care.
• Invest in mobile medical units to reach remote areas.
• Upgrade existing facilities with modern equipment and technologies.

5. Addressing Marketization Concerns:
• Implement and enforce regulations on private healthcare costs and quality standards.
• Expand coverage of health insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
• Develop public-private partnerships with robust oversight to leverage private sector efficiency while ensuring public welfare.

6. Promoting Health Education:
• Launch comprehensive health awareness campaigns focusing on preventive care and healthy lifestyles.
• Integrate health education into school curricula to foster long-term health consciousness.

Conclusion: State intervention in healthcare is crucial to balance market forces and ensure equitable access, ultimately improving public health outcomes at the grassroots level.