UDF Unveils 'Health First' Strategy for Universal Health Coverage in Kerala
In a significant move towards achieving Universal Health Coverage, the United Democratic Front (UDF) has pledged to prioritize a 'Health First' approach upon assuming power, as declared by opposition leader V D Satheesan. Speaking at the Puthu Yuga Yatra in Kozhikode, Satheesan unveiled a comprehensive study report prepared by a health commission appointed by the UDF, marking the first instance of a political party establishing such a dedicated body to address healthcare challenges.
Core Principles and Immediate Actions
Satheesan emphasized that the UDF is committed to safeguarding public health, ensuring no individual is denied medical treatment due to financial constraints. The front advocates that diagnostic examinations and essential medicines are fundamental rights for all patients visiting government hospitals. To this end, the UDF plans to reinstate free healthcare services that have been discontinued because of government arrears, addressing critical gaps in the current system.
Addressing Systemic Failures and Infrastructure Gaps
The report highlights severe deficiencies in Kerala's healthcare infrastructure, including patients forced to lie on floors or share beds due to overcrowding. There is a notable shortage of ICU and ventilator facilities, exacerbated by inadequate planning based on patient numbers. Satheesan pointed out that secondary hospitals lack 24-hour trauma care units, leading to delayed treatments, increased congestion in medical colleges, and undue reliance on private healthcare providers.
Furthermore, the failure of insurance schemes, such as the Medisep program for government employees and pensioners, requires urgent reform. The public health cadre remains incompletely implemented, and e-health services are accessible in only 1,000 hospitals across the state. Despite the construction of hospital buildings through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), these facilities suffer from insufficient staffing patterns, rendering them underutilized.
Coordination and Financial Management
Satheesan criticized the disjointed operation of the health and medical education departments, which function as parallel entities without proper coordination. The UDF intends to harmonize these departments to streamline healthcare delivery. Additionally, guidelines will be established to ensure the effective utilization of funds allocated by hospital development committees, promoting transparency and efficiency in resource management.
Focus on Women, Children, and Healthcare Workers
Priority will be given to women's and children's health through the establishment of specialized She Hospitals. The UDF also aims to resolve issues in health education and employment, particularly in paramedical fields, to bolster the healthcare workforce. Satheesan assured that the problems faced by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) will be addressed permanently, recognizing their crucial role in community health.
In summary, the UDF's 'Health First' initiative represents a holistic blueprint to transform Kerala's healthcare landscape, targeting infrastructure, accessibility, and workforce challenges to achieve equitable health outcomes for all citizens.
