Context
The Indian government is considering the establishment of a comprehensive health sector regulator, merging private and government insurance schemes, to enhance accessibility and affordability of healthcare.
Key Demand: Doctors' associations have advocated for a unified regulatory body to oversee both private and public insurance, aiming to provide better tertiary care access to citizens.
Background
Need:
Present System:
Proposed System:
Benefits:
Issues/Challenges:
Possible Suggestions:
The establishment of a health sector regulator in India is a critical step toward achieving comprehensive and inclusive health insurance coverage. The proposed regulator, guided by the principles of the National Health Policy, 2017, can address existing challenges, ensure accountability, and contribute to the realization of the 'Insurance for All by 2047' visio
Analysis and Reasons
Patient Experiences and Calls for Regulation: Cases
Economic Survey's Endorsement and Complexity of Implementation:
Even-Handed Approach and Differentiating Responsibilities:
Quality, Infrastructure, and Pricing Considerations:
Current Position and Scope of Digital Healthcare Services in India:
National Digital Health Mission (NDHM): Launched under the National Health Policy, 2017, NDHM aims to create a comprehensive digital health ecosystem. It includes initiatives like the creation of digital health IDs, electronic health records, and the National Health Portal. The ABDM, a relaunch of NDHM, intends to digitize the entire health ecosystem, though participation is voluntary.
Telemedicine and Teleconsultation: The Telemedicine Practice Guidelines under the NMC Act, 2019, regulate telemedicine in India. These guidelines outline prescription protocols and the responsibilities of registered medical practitioners during online consultations. The Information Technology Act, 2000, governs data collection by teleconsultation intermediaries.
E-Pharmacies: Despite the absence of specific regulations, e-pharmacies are governed by the IT Act. Recent developments involve a draft amendment to the Drugs and Cosmetics Amendment Rules, 2018, which proposes mandatory registration with the Central Licensing Authority for e-pharmacies.
Government Initiatives: The Indian government has launched various initiatives such as digital health IDs, electronic health records, the National Health Portal, e-hospital, 'Mera Aspataal' for patient feedback, and vaccine tracker mobile apps under the ABDM to enhance healthcare services.
Regulation of Medical Devices: Under the Drugs and Cosmetics (D&C) Act and its rules, all medical devices, including software or accessories designed for diagnosis, prevention, monitoring, or treatment, are classified as 'drugs.' Compliance with the D&C Act is required for their development and distribution.
Data Privacy, Confidentiality, and Funding:
Data Protection: The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011, govern data protection. These rules apply to healthcare businesses, emphasizing obtaining patient consent and implementing security practices.
Cybersecurity Directives: Healthcare service providers in India must comply with cybersecurity directives from the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). This includes mandatory reporting of specific cybersecurity incidents within six hours.
Funding and Investments: The introduction of ABDM has spurred investments in the digital healthcare sector. Notable investments include HealthKart raising funds in Series H rounds and Tata 1mg becoming a unicorn with substantial funding.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic:
Vaccine Campaign and Legal Changes: The Indian government accelerated the vaccine approval process, capped vaccine prices, and provided fiscal support. Legal changes included caps on drug prices, amendments to the Epidemic Disease Act, and regulations for countering COVID-19.
Digital Technology Response: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technology in healthcare, leading to increased use of telemedicine and e-pharmacy services.
Financial Aid: The government provided financial aid through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana and the Loan Guarantee Scheme for Covid Affected Sectors.
Future Outlook and New Opportunities:
Telemedicine and AI Adoption: Telemedicine, AI, and 3D printing have become significant contributors to India's healthcare sector. The future promises increased accessibility, improved healthcare delivery, specialist consultations, chronic disease management, home healthcare, and regulatory support.
Public–Private Partnerships (PPP): The healthcare sector in India is witnessing a growth in PPP models, focusing on infrastructure, service delivery, and accessibility. Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana utilize PPP for establishing and upgrading medical institutions.
Natural Health and Herbal Medicine Products: The market for natural health and herbal medicine products is expanding, with regulations in place for manufacturing and sale. Established companies like Dabur India Ltd, Baidyanath Group, Himalaya Drug Company, and Zandu Pharmaceuticals play a significant role.
Medical Tourism: The Indian government actively promotes medical tourism, collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and quality care. Initiatives like the Medical Value Travel Facilitation Portal and e-Medical visa facilitate international patients.
India's healthcare sector is evolving with a focus on digitalization, public-private partnerships, and natural health products. Despite challenges, the integration of technology, regulatory reforms, and collaborative efforts position India's healthcare ecosystem for positive transformation, aiming for universal health coverage and improved health outcomes for its citizens
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