However, the promises and possible challenges deserve close scrutiny as it is arguably the most ambitious social health insurance (SHI) programme ever launched anywhere in the world. Regarding the former, the World Health Organization recommends that a country should spend at least 4% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on health (Health Financing Strategy for the Asia Pacific Region: 2010-2015 by the World Health Organization). It is against this grim background that we need to assess the PMJAY programme. Clearly, the architecture of the PMJAY programme has been carefully conceived and readied for roll out in a remarkably short time. These will be souped up makeovers of today’s PHCs, the Achilles heel of India’s public health system.

Source: Mint September 20, 2018 15:00 UTC