Reasons for systemic healthcare regulation failures in India

Source: The post reasons for systemic healthcare regulation failures in India has been created, based on the article “Health regulations need a base to top approach” published in “The Hindu” on 7th June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context: The article discusses a fire tragedy in a New Delhi neonatal care nursing home, highlighting systemic healthcare regulation failures in India. It argues for realistic, fair regulations that support small clinics and nursing homes to ensure affordable and quality healthcare.

For detailed information on challenges faced by the healthcare sector in India read this article here

What are the issues with Healthcare in India?

Excessive Regulations: India has numerous health regulations, sometimes over 50 approvals are needed, making compliance complex and cumbersome.

Unrealistic Standards: The Clinical Establishments Act of 2010, which is difficult to implement, and the Indian Public Health Standards show that only 15-18% of government primary health-care facilities meet their own standards.

Inconsistent Enforcement: In 2017, incidents at two hospitals in Delhi showed a disparity in consequences; a private hospital had its license suspended while a government hospital only faced an inquiry. This is significant in a system where private facilities provide the majority of outpatient and hospital services.

Delayed Approvals: Many health-care providers face delays in getting approvals, even when they apply months in advance, affecting the continuity and quality of care.

Overemphasis on Large Facilities: Regulations often cater to large hospitals, overlooking the needs and capabilities of smaller clinics and nursing homes, which serve a significant portion of the population at lower costs.

What should be done?

Simplify Regulations: Overcomplex regulations hinder health care delivery. For instance, only 15-18% of government health facilities meet their own standards, illustrating the gap between policy and practicability.

Facilitate Faster Approvals: Delays in renewing licenses, as reported by facility owners, disrupt service provision. Approvals should be streamlined and made time-bound.

Involve Stakeholders: Regulations should be drafted with inputs from doctors, facility representatives, and the community to ensure they are realistic and equitable.

Support Smaller Facilities: Small clinics and nursing homes are essential for low-cost health services. They need regulations that are supportive and not overly burdensome to maintain accessibility and affordability.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges faced by the healthcare sector in India and potential solutions for it?