As the world commemorates World Health Day 2024 on 7th April, the spotlight shines on a critical aspect of global health – women’s health empowerment in India. In the vibrant landscape of India, where diversity blooms and cultural heritage thrives, there lies an undeniable strength in its women. In a country of over a billion people, empowering women’s health is not just a necessity but a priority that holds the key to unlocking a healthier future for all. A healthy woman nurtures a healthy family and, in turn, contributes to a healthier society.
The Current Landscape
India, home to over a billion people, faces unique challenges in women’s healthcare. From rural areas where medical facilities are scarce to urban centers grappling with overcrowding, Indian women confront a myriad of health issues. Maternal mortality, although declining, remains high. Reproductive health services are often inaccessible, and cultural stigmas create barriers to education and awareness. Non-communicable diseases like diabetes & heart disease are on the rise, further complicating the health landscape for women.
Challenges & Barriers
Several challenges hinder the progress of women’s health in India. These include poverty, illiteracy, and lack of awareness. Additionally, gender-based discrimination leads to unequal access to healthcare services. In rural areas, where healthcare institutes are scarce, women are less likely to receive the care they need. In many societies where men hold more power, women’s health sometimes isn’t seen as important for the whole family.
Government Initiatives In Empowering Women’s Health in India
Recognizing these challenges, the Indian government has launched initiatives like the National Health Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan to improve maternal health services. The Janani Suraksha Yojana aims to reduce maternal & neonatal mortality by encouraging institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.
India has been actively working on improving women’s health through various initiatives that address the unique healthcare needs of women. These initiatives are crucial in a country where other priorities often overshadow women’s health. Here’s a detailed overview of some of the key programmes and schemes:
1) Comprehensive Primary Health Care through Ayushman Bharat- Health & Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs)
The AB-HWCs initiative, launched in 2018, is a transformative approach to providing comprehensive primary healthcare. The goal is to establish 1,50,000 Health and Wellness Centres nationwide by December 2022. These centers offer various services, including preventive, promotive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care, all of which are universal and free. As of July 2023, over 1,60,816 AB-HWCs have been operationalized. These centers also conduct health melas to enhance healthcare service utilization and awareness. Additionally, teleconsultation services through eSanjeevani bring specialist services closer to women, especially in remote areas.
2) Cancer Screening at AB-HWCs
A significant focus of the AB-HWCs is the screening of women for cancers that commonly affect them, such as breast, oral, and cervical cancer. Early detection through these screenings can lead to better outcomes and survival rates.
3) National Free Drugs Initiative and Free Diagnostics Initiative (FDI)
To relieve the financial burden on women seeking healthcare, the National Free Drugs Initiative and FDI provide essential drugs and diagnostics free of cost at public health facilities. This ensures that women can access necessary healthcare services without worrying about cost.
4) National Ambulance Services (NAS) and National Mobile Medical Units (NMMU)
The NAS, linked with a centralized toll-free number, offers emergency medical services. At the same time, the NMMU brings primary care services directly to the doorsteps of those in remote and underserved areas. These services are particularly beneficial for women who may face mobility constraints.
5) Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN)
SUMAN is a scheme that provides assured, dignified, respectful, and quality healthcare at no cost for every woman & newborn visiting public health facilities. It aims to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, a critical aspect of women’s health.
These initiatives represent a comprehensive effort by the Government of India to address the various facets of women’s health, from primary care to emergency services and from preventive screenings to maternal healthcare.
Non-Governmental Efforts
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are pivotal in empowering women’s health in India. They work at the grassroots level, providing education, healthcare services, and advocacy. NGOs like the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) have been instrumental in bringing healthcare to the doorsteps of women in the informal sector.
The Role of Education
Education is a powerful tool for empowerment. Educated women are more likely to take charge of their health, seek medical help, and make informed decisions. Initiatives that focus on educating girls and young women about health, hygiene, and nutrition can have far-reaching impacts on the well-being of entire communities.
Technology & Innovation
In the age of technology, innovative solutions can bridge the gap in women’s healthcare. Telemedicine, mobile health apps, and e-health initiatives make accessing medical advice and support easier for women, especially in remote areas.
The Way Forward
Empowering women’s health in India requires a multi-faceted approach. It calls for:
– Strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
– Enhancing the quality and accessibility of education.
– Enforcing policies that support women’s health and rights.
– Encouraging community participation in health initiatives.
– Leveraging technology to improve healthcare delivery.
Conclusion
Empowering women’s health in India is not just about providing access to healthcare services; it’s about ensuring women have the financial support to utilize these services without hesitation. Health insurance plans have a pivotal role in this empowerment, offering safety cover that can significantly reduce the financial barriers associated with healthcare.
By providing women with access to affordable and comprehensive health protection plans, such as the plans offered by CarePal Secure, we can ensure they have the necessary resources to seek medical attention without financial burden.
CarePal Secure’s commitment to affordability and a wide range of coverage options empowers women to prioritize their health and well-being, fostering a healthier community overall. Empowering women’s health in India is not just about improving statistics; it’s about transforming lives.
As we observe World Health Day 2024, let us renew our commitment to creating a world where every woman has the opportunity to live a healthy, fulfilling life. It is a journey of a thousand miles and begins with a single step – a step towards empowerment, equality, and well-being for all women in India. Let’s take that step together.
