The National Health Policy of 2017 is a comprehensive framework developed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in India.
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Its main objective is to improve the healthcare system by ensuring equitable, affordable, and high-quality healthcare services for all citizens. The policy covers various areas such as preventive healthcare, access to essential medicines, primary healthcare, and integration of traditional medicine systems. This analysis will examine the key elements and goals of the National Health Policy, 2017.
The primary aim of the policy is to shift the healthcare focus from curative to preventive and promotive care. Recognizing the significance of addressing social determinants of health, the policy aims to create an environment that promotes healthy lifestyles and preventive interventions. It emphasizes early detection and disease management through regular screenings and awareness campaigns.
Universal access to healthcare is another crucial aspect of the policy. It highlights the importance of strengthening primary healthcare services as the foundation of the healthcare system. The policy strives to provide comprehensive essential healthcare services at the primary level, ensuring accessibility for all individuals and families. It also proposes the establishment of a network of health and wellness centers to deliver a wide range of services, including reproductive and child healthcare, management of non-communicable diseases, and basic emergency care.
Addressing healthcare financing is a significant component of the National Health Policy, 2017. It recognizes the need for increased public spending on healthcare and aims to raise the government’s health expenditure to 2.5% of the GDP by 2025. The policy emphasizes the importance of risk pooling and advocates for a robust health insurance system to protect individuals from overwhelming healthcare expenses. It also encourages the exploration of innovative financing mechanisms and the promotion of public-private partnerships to enhance healthcare delivery.
The policy acknowledges the importance of integrating traditional medicine systems into the overall healthcare framework. It underscores the need for an integrated approach and mainstreaming of traditional systems, such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH), within the public health system. The policy also emphasizes research and development in these systems and the promotion of their appropriate and effective utilization.
Additionally, the National Health Policy, 2017 focuses on human resource development in the healthcare sector. It recognizes the shortage of skilled healthcare professionals and aims to strengthen education and training infrastructure. The policy advocates for the development of a competency-based framework for healthcare professionals and promotes continuous professional development to enhance their skills and knowledge.
In conclusion, the National Health Policy, 2017 provides a comprehensive roadmap for transforming the healthcare system in India. It underscores a holistic approach to healthcare with an emphasis on preventive and primary care, universal access, and integrated healthcare delivery. The policy also recognizes the significance of healthcare financing, human resource development, and the integration of traditional medicine systems. Implementation of the strategies outlined in the policy is crucial for achieving the goal of equitable and affordable healthcare for all citizens of India.