Most Indians seem convinced by the recurring themes of being a poor nation and thus being unable to afford their own health. The word ‘afford’ has become part of the national health lexicon ever since the Bhore Committee (1957) submitted its report on the structure of health services that could benefit India. The economy has multiplied in size many times over but we continue to remain a ‘poor nation’ when it comes to funding health. Ironically, the poor health of individuals is now held responsible for delivering an ‘underperforming’ economy, as if that were the purpose of health. The sense of despondency in those engaged in the health economy is a result of the same reason that is praiseworthy in other sections of the economy, namely, profit.

Source: The Hindu January 27, 2018 18:33 UTC