26 January 2022 | Views
Dr Roy Patankar, Director, Zen Multispecialty Hospital, Chembur, Mumbai
Many telehealth platforms have come up during the pandemic that offers primary healthcare at home. Telehealth is a viable option. Another important component is health insurance. There has been a high level of awareness regarding health insurance. Thus, this year’s health budget should include this factor too. There should be certain guidelines for aggregator platforms that have been operating during the pandemic to ensure smooth functioning. The budget should also concentrate on the mental health of the paramedic staff. Certain provisions should be made for the economically lower class to seek affordable treatment. Thirst should be on building infrastructure in B and C grade towns with special funding initiatives, higher depreciation outside metros and low-cost funding to hospitals with more than 100 beds. Special incentives and funding should be done to set up oxygen generation plants. CSR initiatives should be encouraged to fund vaccination.