32. "Our national policy too, aims at in proving the accessibility
of health care, family welfare and nutritional service with a
special focus on the under-privileged segment of population
Over the last five decades India has built up a vast
health infrastructure and has developed man power required at,
primary, secondary and tertiary sector in Government as well as
in the private sector."
(1) Mention one advantage of good health.
(11) Describe the value of government health policy. (Three
points only)
Answers
Answer:
The new agenda for Public Health in India includes the epidemiological transition, demographical transition, environmental changes and social determinants of health. Based on the principles outlined at Alma-Ata in 1978, there is an urgent call for revitalizing primary health care in order to meet these challenges. The role of the government in influencing population health is not limited within the health sector but also by various sectors outside the health systems. This article is a literature review of the existing government machinery for public health needs in India, its success, limitations and future scope. Health system strengthening, human resource development and capacity building and regulation in public health are important areas within the health sector. Contribution to health of a population also derives from social determinants of health like living conditions, nutrition, safe drinking water, sanitation, education, early child development and social security measures. Population stabilization, gender mainstreaming and empowerment, reducing the impact of climate change and disasters on health, improving community participation and governance issues are other important areas for action. Making public health a shared value across the various sectors is a politically challenging strategy, but such collective action is crucial.
Keywords: Health sector, intersectoral issues, public health, role of government
INTRODUCTION
The practice of public health has been dynamic in India, and has witnessed many hurdles in its attempt to affect the lives of the people of this country. Since independence, major public health problems like malaria, tuberculosis, leprosy, high maternal and child mortality and lately, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been addressed through a concerted action of the government. Social development coupled with scientific advances and health care has led to a decrease in the mortality rates and birth rates.[1]
This article is a literature review of the existing government machinery for public health needs in India, its success, limitations and future scope.