Critical Review of Trends, Drivers, Issues, and Challenges of Primary Healthcare Services in India

Abstract

The Indian health care system is typical in nature and the Government has invested in building a strong public healthcare infrastructure. The pivotal role is played by the evolution of foremost non-public sector facilities created by the Government as healthcare emerges as the priority sector of the Government of India. However, with a population of virtually 1.35 Billion, with a majority living within the rural hinterlands, there is a scope to enhance the healthcare facilities to improve the health of individuals. It is noteworthy to mention that approximately about 70 per cent of the disbursal on health expenditure is borne by the individual, a steep value that pushes several families into debt. The recently proclaimed “Ayushman Bharat” scheme in India, that will cowl a minimum of 40 per cent of the population, envisages a holistic approach. It seeks to deal with the inherent issues of accessibility and affordability and supply an all-around answer to healthcare needs for the masses. The bottom line of the scheme entails enhancing accessibility, and providing cost- effective insurance to the people at the bottom of pyramid. It leverages the strengths of the general public sector and private players to redefine the health care delivery system. An attempt is made in this research article is made to review in brief the current status of healthcare in India and components of healthcare sector. This article also provides brief discussion on the challenges and opportunities faced by India’s Healthcare sector in delivering healthcare services.