more-inThe launch of Ayushman Bharat, a national health protection scheme (NHPS), in the last stretch of this government’s tenure comes as no surprise. Health policies have two objectives: to enhance the health of the population and reduce the financial risk for those accessing treatment. Since the health scheme seeks to address both these critical health goals, it is an important step forward. For example, even a well-placed State such as Tamil Nadu has an over 30% shortage of medical and non-medical professionals in government facilities. In the northern States there are hardly any sub-centres and primary health centres are practically non-existent.

Source: The Hindu May 27, 2018 18:32 UTC