Budget brings a major impetus to health care reform

The health care proposals in the 2021 Union budget, aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, have given a major impetus to health care reform in the country. It reflects the emphasis on three major aspects of prevention, healing and well-being involving primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare, which in turn will generate more jobs.

Undoubtedly, the 138% increase of health and well-being outlay is commendable. PM Aatmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Yojana to develop capacities of health care systems and is a progressive step towards the sustainable development of the healthcare sector.

Further, setting up of rural and urban health and wellness centres could be an opportunity to create a PPP model. The partnership-driven approach is a sure step for the entities to bring to these hospitals their inherent areas of strength, thus building a quality model of care. This also allows the private sector to take part in addressing the health needs of the country more effectively.