5 things you must know about Indian Healthcare System

by Veraaj Verma writer

India was ranked 112 out of 190 countries by World Health organization’s 2000 Report. Where does our country stand in terms of health and wellness, besides some remarkable developments taking place regularly, India lacks on certain major points to look after.

Metro cities in India are at a better standpoint in comparison to small towns and villages. For those living in urban areas, healthcare is merely a political issue. The arguments in relation to developments generally speak out for economic developments, infrastructure, jobs and border disputes with rival countries.

Here are 5 essential Indian Healthcare System info you must know :-

1. Rural vs Urban

India spends only around 4.2% of its national GDP in comparison with 18% spending by the US towards healthcare goods and services. There are considerably wide gaps between the rural and urban populations in its healthcare system which further worsens the issue. 70% population of India still lives in rural areas and has no or limited access to hospitals and clinics nearby, they generally rely on government programs organized by health organizations. On contrary, urban centers have all facilities available with better care and facilities.

2. Lack of Effective Payment Mechanisms

The most Indian patients pay for their hospital visits and doctor appointments with cash with no possible payment arrangement. According to World Bank and National Commission’s Report on Macroeconomics, only 5% of Indians are covered by health insurance policies. Though the penetration of health insurances is increasing over the years, it has been one of the fastest growing segments of business in India. The growth can be visualized by increasing online medical stores giving access to quick home delivery and online pharmacies giving convenience to get medicines online along with various payment methods for users.

3. Need for Primary Healthcare and Infrastructure

For Primary healthcare concerns, the Indian government spends only about 30% of the country’s total healthcare budget. It can be compared to just a fraction of what US & UK spend every year. India has a dire need to fix its basic health concerns in the areas of HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and diarrhea. Basic infra issue needs to be fixed by standardizing diagnostic procedures, building rural clinics and developing streamlined health IT systems and improving efficiency.

4. Growth of Pharmaceutical Sector

As per Indian Brand Equity Foundation, India is the third largest exporter of Pharmaceutical products in volume perspective. Around 80 %of the entire market is composed of generic low-cost drugs which are a major driver of the country. The growth has linked up with various online medium to order medicine online along with medicine substitutes available in order to provide low-cost drugs.

5. Underdeveloped Medical Devices Sector

Though the medical devices sector is the smallest of all India’s Healthcare sector, it is one of the fastest growing sectors in the country like health insurance marketplace. The industry has also faced a number of regulatory challenges which has played an important role in preventing the growth and development. The medical devices sector in India is one of the most promising areas for future development by foreign and regional investors, being much profitable and in demand around other countries.

The condition of Indian HealthCare Sector can surely be improved and improvised keeping in consideration the constant efforts and major developments lined up.