Ayushman Bharat, a flagship healthcare initiative of the Government of India, aims to transform India’s healthcare landscape, and its implementation in Odisha has the potential to enhance healthcare access, affordability, and quality. Here’s how Ayushman Bharat can benefit Odisha’s healthcare:
1. Improved Access to Healthcare
- Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs): Ayushman Bharat focuses on setting up Health and Wellness Centers across rural and urban areas, providing primary healthcare services close to people’s homes. In Odisha, these centers can address the healthcare needs of remote and tribal populations.
- Telemedicine and Mobile Units: For areas with poor healthcare infrastructure, mobile medical units and telemedicine services can bridge the gap.
2. Financial Protection for Vulnerable Populations
- PM-JAY Coverage: Under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), over 10 crore families in India are eligible for up to ₹5 lakh per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. Odisha’s economically weaker sections, especially in rural and tribal areas, can greatly benefit.
- Reduced Out-of-Pocket Expenditure: Many families in Odisha face financial hardship due to healthcare expenses. Ayushman Bharat can alleviate this burden.
3. Enhancing Healthcare Infrastructure
- Increased Hospital Network: Empaneling private and public hospitals under Ayushman Bharat will expand the availability of advanced medical care in Odisha.
- Capacity Building: Funding and training opportunities under Ayushman Bharat can improve the skillsets of healthcare providers in the state.
4. Focus on Preventive Healthcare
- Screenings and Wellness Programs: Regular health check-ups and screenings for diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer can help in early detection and management.
- Health Education: Promoting awareness about hygiene, nutrition, and lifestyle changes can lead to a healthier population.
5. Integration with State Schemes
- Odisha has its own health assurance scheme, Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY), which overlaps with PM-JAY in providing free healthcare. Collaboration between the two schemes can increase coverage and avoid duplication of efforts.
6. Improving Maternal and Child Health
- Ayushman Bharat includes provisions for maternal and child healthcare, which can reduce maternal mortality and improve child health outcomes in Odisha.
Challenges to Address
- Awareness: Ensuring that eligible beneficiaries in remote areas are aware of the scheme.
- Infrastructure: Upgrading existing healthcare facilities and addressing gaps in availability of specialized care.
- Coordination: Seamless integration between PM-JAY and state health schemes like BSKY.
By addressing these challenges and leveraging the full potential of Ayushman Bharat, Odisha can significantly enhance its healthcare system, making it more inclusive and resilient.
