How does the Indian health system ensure accessibility and affordability of healthcare services

Discuss the measures taken by the Indian healthcare system to ensure accessibility and affordability of healthcare services for all citizens.
The Indian healthcare system has introduced several measures to ensure accessibility and affordability of healthcare services for all its citizens. Some of the key measures include:
  • Implementation of the National Health Policy, which aims to provide equitable and affordable healthcare services to all citizens.
  • Establishment of government-funded healthcare facilities, such as primary health centres, community health centres and district hospitals, in remote areas to improve access to healthcare services.
  • Launch of several health insurance schemes, including the Ayushman Bharat scheme, to provide financial protection to low-income families and individuals who cannot afford expensive medical treatments.
  • Encouraging private sector participation in healthcare services to help reduce the burden on public health facilities.
  • Introduction of telemedicine services to provide remote consultation and diagnosis to patients living in rural areas where there is a shortage of healthcare professionals.
  • Regulation of prices of essential medicines and medical procedures to prevent private healthcare providers from charging exorbitant rates.
These measures have helped to improve the accessibility and affordability of healthcare services for a large number of people in the country, particularly those living in remote and economically weaker regions. However, despite these efforts, there is still a long way to go to ensure that every citizen has access to quality healthcare services.
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