A. Health Sector
[Image: Drawbacks of Healthcare System]
Here are some key points on the issues of India’s performance on various health indicators:
|
Access to Healthcare |
Healthcare Access in India: Limited. Just over 60% access essential services (WHO data), below 72% global average. Urban/rural divide exacerbates inequality. |
|
Poor Health Infrastructure |
A related issue is the limited availability of quality health infrastructure in India. Many parts of the country lack sufficient hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, making it difficult for people to access care when they need it. In addition, many of the healthcare facilities that do exist are often underfunded and understaffed, leading to suboptimal care. |
|
Shortage of Healthcare Professionals |
India also faces a shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly in rural areas. According to data from the WHO, there are just over three doctors per 10,000 people in India, which is lower than the global average of over six doctors per 10,000 people. This shortage of healthcare professionals makes it difficult for many people to access the care they need. |
|
High out-of-pocket Healthcare Costs |
Another issue facing India is the high cost of healthcare, particularly for those who pay out-of-pocket. According to data from the WHO, out-of-pocket healthcare expenses account for around 60% of total healthcare expenditure in India. This can be a significant burden for many families, particularly those living in poverty. |
|
Poor Quality of Care |
In addition to the issues of access and affordability, the quality of healthcare in India can also be a concern. Many healthcare facilities lack the necessary equipment and supplies to provide high-quality care, and there can be significant variations in the quality of care provided by different facilities. |
India faces several issues related to the health of its citizens. While there has been some progress in recent years, addressing these issues will require significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, efforts to increase the availability of healthcare professionals, and policies to improve the affordability and quality of care.