Healthcare, celebrated as a fundamental human right, is a timeless ideal that transcends borders and generations. Rooted in historical ethos and modern advocacy, the concept of healthcare for all stands as a beacon of societal progress. Yet, the perceived reality often crumbles beneath the weight of a stark disparity—an illusion of accessibility and affordability that masks deep-rooted inequalities.
Disparities amidst perceived rights
The concept of healthcare as a fundamental human right seems broadly accepted in public discourse. Yet in reality, healthcare access and quality remain unreliable mirages for marginalised groups. The average amount spent on healthcare per person has been steadily increasing, according to the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).
In 2014, this monthly spending was approximately ₹3,638. However, by the year 2019, this amount had increased to ₹4,863, and by the end of 2023, this figure was expected to be multiplied several times. Out-of-pocket payments account for a large proportion of India’s overall health spending and insurance penetration still has a long way to go.
The National Health Accounts reveal that it has decreased from 69.4% in 2004–2005 to 48.21 percent in 2018–2019; however, many claim that it is still higher and contribute to a larger percentage of the household spend on healthcare. A World Health Organisation (WHO) study released in March 2022 claims that 55 million Indians are impoverished annually as a result of excessive OOPE on health. This has the potential to push individuals and families into poverty.
Nuances in India's healthcare landscape
In India, where commendable strides have been made towards universal healthcare equity, statistics reveal a nuanced narrative. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat showcase progress, yet the economic ramifications loom large, challenging the delicate balance between expansive coverage and escalating costs.
Also Read: Union Budget 2023: Moving closer towards universal health through proper implementation is key
But with such a huge population, the government alone cannot take on the overall burden of universal healthcare. The current strategy of targeting and customising health schemes according to demographics is the way to go. Additionally, it recognises the diverse healthcare needs of different regions and communities within India.
However, it is crucial to continuously reassess and adapt these targeted schemes to address emerging healthcare challenges and evolving demographics. By combining targeted initiatives with a broader focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and addressing social determinants of health, India can continue its journey towards achieving universal healthcare without pushing more people into poverty.
Ripple effects on business and society
The status quo issues of profit-centric models also create economic ripple effects. Lost productivity from poor population health costs businesses billions of dollars annually. Preventable diseases incur high costs for treatment, hospitalisation, and disability adjustments.
According to a 2014 report by the World Economic Forum and the Harvard School of Public Health, between 2012 and 2030, non-communicable diseases and mental disorders might cost India $4.58 trillion. Just cardiovascular illnesses would cost $2.17 trillion, while mental health issues would cost $1.03 trillion.
The Global Burden of Disease Study estimates that in 2019, the health effects of air pollution alone cost India 1.36% of its GDP. In 2019, economic damages resulting from premature mortality and sickness caused by air pollution totaled $28.8 billion and $8 billion, respectively. A total of $36.8 billion was lost.
Moral duty and competitive incentives
However, amidst this complex tapestry, businesses are emerging as catalysts for change. Industry leaders, realising the ethical imperative, are leveraging innovative strategies to serve underserved communities. Businesses thus have both a moral duty and a competitive incentive to facilitate progress. At Medix Global, we have conducted a digital health competition for Indian Health Tech start-ups and were excited to see the number of entrepreneurs and companies that are innovating and developing products to support the local health ecosystem and drive change.
Firms that innovate ethically using technology and design to serve marginalised communities will capture new market share. The public sector can-not tackle this challenge on their own and providing a framework for public private partnerships or consortiums that bring together industry players, insurers and other participants can help move the needle. A focus on employee health, inclusion, and accessibility also pays dividends through performance gains. As major societal stakeholders, corporations have a unique capacity to lead multi-sector cooperation on reforms centred on accountability, equity, and human rights.
Global collaborative efforts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the value of putting health first and working across national boundaries in a video address at the G20 Health Ministers' conference. The realisation of equitable access to universal healthcare can be greatly aided by international collaboration and the exchange of best practices.
Creating forums for nations to share innovative healthcare concepts, policies, and practices promotes international collaboration towards a shared objective. In order to address healthcare inequities not just inside specific countries like India but also beyond borders, collaborative initiatives between nations, non-governmental organisations, and corporate entities can streamline resources, research, and knowledge, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to global health.
Long-term investment and policy stability
Long-term investment and policy stability are required to ensure a sustainable healthcare system. Governments must commit to regular healthcare financing in order to avoid swings that could derail measures aimed at obtaining universal coverage.
Stable policies foster an atmosphere that encourages private investment in healthcare, hence supporting innovation and growth in the field. Establishing bipartisan or cross-party consensus on healthcare policies can help to reduce uncertainty and maintain a stable healthcare framework, boosting investor confidence and creating a climate conducive to long-term sustainable healthcare solutions.
The choice for healthcare equity
There is no question we have the capacity to realise healthcare as a universal human right rather than a mirage. But this requires moral courage and vision from political and business leaders and each of us needs to do our part to increase awareness, accessibility and sustainability of healthcare. The alternative is an unjust status quo that benefits none in the long run. The choice is ours.
—The author, Sigal Atzmon, is CEO and Founder, Medix Global. The views expressed are personal.
(Edited by : C H Unnikrishnan)
First Published: Dec 16, 2023 12:40 PM IST
Check out our in-depth Market Coverage, Business News & get real-time Stock Market Updates on CNBC-TV18. Also, Watch our channels CNBC-TV18, CNBC Awaaz and CNBC Bajar Live on-the-go!
I.N.D.I.A. bloc committed to predictable and stable tax environment: Jairam Ramesh
May 21, 2024 6:33 PM
Exclusive | INDIA bloc will ensure stable policy framework, simple GST, end tax terrorism: Jairam Ramesh
May 21, 2024 5:02 PM
Cong leaders 'failed' to protect party's constitution says FM Nirmala Sitharaman in Bihar
May 21, 2024 4:01 PM
Who will succeed Modi? Oppn thinks Amit Shah will, but PM said this
May 21, 2024 2:38 PM