Public Health and Governance in Tamil Nadu: An Overview

Abstract

Tamil Nadu has ancient roots in theory and practice of health. In fact, health is linked with karmic and spiritual aspects. The eighteen Siddhars have classified the diseases and the method of cures. The British rule gradually introduced the western system of medicine. The concept of public health was given limited field by the colonial administration. After Independence, the Central, State Government, and local governments did widen their social responsibility to provide public health. Being health as State subject, the State plays vital role in providing health education. Western medicine occupies major part. The State supports the indigenous medicine as well. Tamil Nadu has special health provision for women and child. Tamil Nadu has achieved in health indicators like life expectancy at birth, infant mortality rate and maternal mortality rate. Among the major States Tamil Nadu ranks fourth highest in terms of life expectancy at birth, second lowest in infant mortality rate and birth rate, third lowest in maternal mortality rate and tenth lowest in death rate. It is reported that smallpox, polio and guinea worm have been eradicated in Tamil Nadu. The provision of healthcare facilities is related to preventive and curative services. Healthcare facilities at the primary, secondary and tertiary level are run mainly by the Government.