My Voice

Covid-19 & Public Health System

There are inequalities in the effectiveness of public health systems when it comes to different states of India.

Published:
18 Jul 2021 11:00am IST

<strong>Dr Rani Pathak Das</strong> - Guest Editor — **Dr Rani Pathak Das** - Guest Editor

The pandemic has taught us a lot of things. It has been two years running since its outbreak in late 2019 and both the government and people have learnt very many lessons from this unprecedented health emergency. With the experience of so many fatalities and loss, the citizens today expect the government to improve its public health performance. We can rightfully say that Covid-19 has made us realise that the government needs to improve the public health system as well as regulate private healthcare.
We have also noticed huge inequalities in the effectiveness of public health systems when it comes to different states of India. The role of National Health Mission has been immense in improving and maintaining the healthcare scenario in India. It is quite discouraging that since 2017-18 the Centre's allocations for NHM have decreased resulting in insufficient support in conducting core healthcare activities in the states such as immunisation, vaccination etc. The government must increase its allocation for the public health system during the current fiscal year so that it can meet the targets of National Health Policy.
Another notable matter of concern has been the delayed response of the government in favour of vaccination for pregnant women. In fact, a worried gender gap has been noticed across the country with wide regional differences. As patriarchy dominates men's needs first, the government must walk the extra mile to meet the needs of Covid-19 vaccination for women across the nation.
Well, apart from the pandemic situation we must remember that today, 18 July is 'Nelson Mandela International Day' declared by the United Nations in recognition of the former South African President's contribution to the culture of peace and freedom. Celebration of the day signifies that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an imprint.
In the coming week Fit North East will continue to focus on the healthcare developments in the region in particular apart from Covid-19 related issues. Our regular feature articles along with other exclusive reports will be there to fill the plate.
Eid-ul-Adha, the second of the two Eid festivals, will be celebrated on 21st July in India. Let me wish all our viewers a very happy and peaceful Eid on the occasion of this auspicious day.

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