the government and our health

Watched a news channel relating the french health system and was amazed at the seriousness and care they give to the health of their citizens. 

The French national healthcare system takes care of most part of the healthcare cost, subsidises it and the rest is taken care of by insurance companies. The result is that a patient getting critical care and spending about 10 days in a deluxe payward room pays a maximum of $200(about Rs.9000/-) which is cheaper than in a country like India.

And whats more, most of the times you don't pay anything when you are filling out a prescription at a drug store. 

Incredible. Thats what comes out of an efficient and futuristic government who cares about their people. The French national healthcare system ensures this for any resident national french citizen. One might wonder whether this means that salaries of doctors in France are low. But that is not the case. French doctors are some of the most highly paid in the world drawing  approximately Rs. 2 to 4 lacs per annum.

This government managed care system is rated as one of the best in the world not just because of its quality but because it is also available to just about every man, woman and child residing in France. 

The emergency care system is managed by doctors themselves. When a call comes in, the doctor discusses the problem and scrutinises the issue. They are able to reduce unwanted emergency situations and usage of emergency staff by as much as 50% because of this making it very cost effective. It is notable that there aare no paramedics in ambulances, but doctors. this ensures that the diagnosis is done mid way to the hospital saving time, cost and most important...patient lives.

The other part of French healthcare system is the private SOS care which ensures doctor visits at home at a predetermined interval or in other situations where patients cannot visit hospitals. This ensures better health and less travel to hospitals unless in an emergency. 

India is a developing country, yet our healthcare management has a long way to go. It is time we took stock of our situation. Do write in with your comments and views. We, at Lifelines are creating a project report that will be handed over to our health minister to implement. 

I know we have a long way to go and tons of effort to change our system and the government, but well, a step in the right direction is worth it even if its a tiny step.

Together we can do it.