The National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 aims at ensuring universal access to quality and affordable healthcare in India. Recent data from the National Health Accounts (NHA) showcase a significant increase in government health expenditure (GHE) as a proportion of GDP, indicating the nation’s commitment to bolstering healthcare accessibility and affordability.
Between 2014-15 and 2021-22, GHE as a proportion of GDP surged by an unprecedented 63 percent, reaching 1.84 percent in 2021-22. Per capita government expenditure witnessed a threefold increase during this period, reflecting a substantial rise in healthcare investments. Notably, expenditure on government-financed insurance, including schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY), has surged, leading to increased social security expenditure on health.
One of the significant achievements has been the consistent decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) as a share of total health expenditure. This decline, from 62.6 percent in 2014-15 to 39.4 percent in 2021-22, signifies reduced financial burden on individuals seeking healthcare services. Several factors have contributed to this decline, such as the expansion of government healthcare facilities, free ambulance services, and initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme.
Furthermore, initiatives like free drugs and diagnostics services at health facilities and the establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras offering affordable generic medicines have substantially reduced healthcare costs for individuals. Price regulation of essential medical items has also resulted in significant savings for the population.
The government’s increasing focus on health-related expenditure is evident from economic surveys, which report a rising trend. Investments in social determinants of health, including water supply and sanitation through missions like Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission, have led to positive health outcomes and contributed to a healthier population.
The overall trajectory indicates a move towards a more progressive health system, with funds allocated for infrastructural support and strengthening of healthcare infrastructure across the country. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana, Ayushman Bharat Infrastructure Mission, and Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package are bolstering the health infrastructure.
In conclusion, India’s health system is undergoing significant reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage. The recent trends of increasing government financing for health and decreasing reliance on out-of-pocket expenditure signal progress towards this goal.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
