Hindu Editorial Analysis :11-May-2024
Universal Health Coverage (UHC) means that everyone has access to the health services they need without facing financial difficulties. This includes a wide range of services:
- Health Promotion: Efforts to encourage healthy lifestyles.
- Prevention: Measures to prevent diseases.
- Treatment: Access to medical care when needed.
- Rehabilitation: Support for recovery after illness.
- Palliative Care: Comfort care for those with serious illnesses.
Achieving UHC is a crucial goal outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015.
UHC in India
India is striving to achieve UHC through the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). This scheme is designed to provide health insurance to vulnerable populations. However, several challenges remain.
Challenges Facing UHC
Off-track Progress
- Stagnation: Since 2015, improvements in health service coverage have stalled.
- Financial Burden: More people are experiencing financial strain due to high medical costs.
Manpower Shortages
Many regions, especially in Western and Central Asia, face severe healthcare worker shortages. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue, disrupting essential health services in many countries.
Economic Inequality
Health crises hit poorer households harder. When a family member falls ill, the household may lose their primary income source. To pay for treatment, families often sell assets, leading to deeper poverty. The WHO reports that 55 million people fall into poverty each year due to health-related expenses.
Insufficient Health Spending
India’s health expenditure is around 3.2% of GDP, significantly lower than the average of 5.2% in lower and middle-income countries. Government spending in India is only about 1.1% of GDP, compared to higher rates in countries like China and Thailand.
The Role of Digital Health
Global Initiatives
India is taking the lead in digital health with the Global Initiative on Digital Health, launched during its G20 presidency. This initiative focuses on attracting investments and sharing health data.
Enhancing Digital Infrastructure
India’s Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission supports UHC expansion through technology. A robust digital framework can help manage complex healthcare needs.
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by:
- Improving Diagnostics: AI tools enhance diagnostic accuracy.
- Predicting Outbreaks: AI can analyze data to predict diseases.
- Optimizing Treatments: Personalized treatment plans can be developed more effectively.
The Need for Collaboration
India is not alone in its efforts; many low- and middle-income countries seek to expand UHC as well. Sharing experiences can provide valuable insights.
Private Sector Involvement
The public sector alone cannot ensure UHC. Collaborating with the private sector is essential to expand health coverage effectively.
Recommendations for Improvement
The WHO recommends using a Primary Health Care (PHC) approach to enhance health systems. This method could save millions of lives and increase global life expectancy significantly by 2030.
Why In News
The expansion of Universal Health Coverage will be complex, but data and digital technology can smoothen the way by enhancing efficiency, improving accessibility, and ensuring that healthcare services reach those who need them most.
MCQs about The Importance of Universal Health Coverage and the Role of Technology
- What does Universal Health Coverage (UHC) ensure for individuals?
A. Only preventive care
B. Access to a full range of quality health services without financial hardship
C. Exclusive treatments for wealthy individuals
D. Coverage only for hospital visits
- Which initiative in India is primarily focused on achieving Universal Health Coverage?
A. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
B. Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
C. National Health Mission
D. Digital India Initiative
- What significant impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on health services globally?
A. Improved healthcare funding
B. Increased access to medical professionals
C. Disruption of essential health services in many countries
D. Elimination of health inequalities
- How can Artificial Intelligence (AI) contribute to healthcare improvements?
A. By reducing the number of healthcare professionals
B. By enhancing diagnostic accuracy and optimizing treatment plans
C. By replacing traditional medicine entirely
D. By increasing costs of medical services
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
