Maharashtra's healthcare system is facing severe criticism from health activists, who have given the state a failing grade of 'F' (23 out of 100) for its performance, particularly in women's healthcare. The state's anaemia rates among women have risen from 53% to 57% between 2015-2016 and 2019-2021, according to the National Family Health Survey.
Pregnant women face significant challenges, including limited access to primary health centres that operate 24/7, and only one free sonography scan during pregnancy, with additional scans requiring out-of-pocket payments.
Key Concerns and Demands:
Rising Anaemia Rates: 57% of women in Maharashtra are anaemic, up from 53% in 2015-2016.
Lack of Healthcare Policy: No comprehensive policy for women's health needs.
Inaccessible Healthcare: Pregnant women referred to distant hospitals due to limited primary health centre hours.
Insufficient Funding: Maharashtra's per capita health expenditure is Rs 1,979, below the national average of Rs 2,300.
Patchy Coverage: Aapla Dawkhanas cover only 10% of urban outpatient care outside Mumbai.
Healthcare in Maharashtra is in critical condition.Girish Bhave, Public Health Expert of Jan Arogya Abhiyan (JAA)
Enactment of Right to Health Act:
The NGOs are pushing for the enactment of a 'Right to Health Act' to ensure that every citizen has access to quality healthcare. This would provide a legal framework for healthcare in the state and hold the government accountable for providing adequate healthcare services. NGOs are suggesting for the improvement of healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. This includes upgrading existing healthcare facilities, increasing the number of healthcare workers, and ensuring that healthcare services are accessible to all citizens.
Another key demand is to double the state's expenditure on healthcare. Currently, Maharashtra's per capita health expenditure is Rs 1,979, which is below the national average of Rs 2,300. Increasing the budget would enable the state to upgrade its healthcare infrastructure and provide better services to its citizens.
The NGOs are also seeking to address the shortage of medicines in public healthcare facilities. This would ensure that patients receive the necessary treatment without having to rely on private healthcare providers. Furthermore, the NGOs are advocating for the regulation of private healthcare providers to prevent exploitation and ensure that they provide quality services at affordable prices.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)