A robust primary health structure not only fulfills the moral duty of a Welfare State but is also pivotal for sustainable development. By ensuring access to basic healthcare, it enhances human capital, productivity, and economic resilience, fostering a healthier population as the foundation for lasting societal progress and stability.
UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 2 Mains 2021
UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2021
Approach
- Start with a brief intro of the keyword “welfare state”.
- Discuss the Primary health structure is a moral imperative of a Welfare State:
- Discuss how primary health structure is a moral imperative of the state and a necessary precondition for sustainable development.
- Conclusion accordingly.
Answer
Introduction
- Primary health care refers to the initial interaction between an individual and the healthcare system when seeking assistance for a health concern. It serves as the first point of contact for individuals seeking medical support. The Welfare State is a governmental concept wherein the State assumes a pivotal role in safeguarding and enhancing the economic and social welfare of its citizens.
Body
The Primary health structure is a moral imperative of a Welfare State:
- The Right to Health is an inherent and integral aspect of the Right to Life, and as such, it is recognized as a fundamental right for all citizens of India under Article 21 of the Constitution.
- Article 47 of the Constitution, as a Directive Principle of State Policy, emphasises the importance of enhancing nutrition levels, improving living standards, and advancing public health. It imposes a responsibility on the state to provide primary healthcare facilities.
- A comprehensive primary health structure is crucial for individuals to exercise their fundamental rights to livelihood and dignity. As emphasised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, every person has the right to freely develop their personality.
Primary health structure is a moral imperative of the state and a necessary precondition for sustainable development: the establishment of a primary health structure is not only a moral imperative for the state but also a vital precondition for sustainable development. Here’s why:
- Health as a Fundamental Right: Access to healthcare, including primary health services, is considered a fundamental right of every individual. It is the responsibility of the state to ensure that its citizens have equitable access to quality healthcare services. By providing a robust primary health structure, the state fulfils its obligation to protect and promote the well-being and rights of its people.
- Human Capital Development: A healthy population is a key driver of sustainable development. Investing in primary health care contributes to human capital development by improving the overall health status of individuals. This, in turn, enhances productivity, increases labour force participation, and fosters economic growth. By prioritising primary health, the state sets the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous society.
- Prevention and Early Intervention: Primary health structures focus on preventive measures, early diagnosis, and timely intervention. By providing primary healthcare services, the state can effectively address health issues at their early stages, preventing them from progressing into more severe and costly conditions. This approach not only improves individual health outcomes but also reduces the burden on the healthcare system in the long run.
- Health Equity and Social Justice: A well-functioning primary health structure ensures equitable access to healthcare services, irrespective of socio-economic status or geographical location. It promotes social justice by addressing health disparities and ensuring that vulnerable and marginalised populations receive the necessary care and support. This contributes to building a fair and inclusive society.
- Resilience and Preparedness: A primary health structure plays a crucial role in strengthening a nation’s resilience and preparedness to address health emergencies and outbreaks. It provides the infrastructure, resources, and expertise needed to respond effectively to public health crises, safeguarding the well-being of the population and minimising the impact on social and economic systems.
Conclusion
- Thus, As acknowledged in the 2018 Astana Declaration, the Primary Health Care approach is identified as the most efficient and sustainable solution to address contemporary health challenges. The National Health Policy 2017 also emphasises the importance of delivering an expanded range of assured and comprehensive primary health care services through the Health and Wellness Centers. It advocates allocating a significant proportion of resources towards strengthening primary care.
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