Assessing Discrepancies in Healthcare and Health Sector in Jammu and Kashmir

Background/Objectives: Jammu and Kashmir is one of the northern hill states of India rich in climatic resources and knowledgeable population dividend. The people of the state particularly in rural areas face hardships in terms of healthcare, especially during harsh winter months. The state/central administration has carried out tremendous efforts for creation of better health related services in the region. Thus, the broader objective of the study is to assess and estimate the healthcare infrastructure and healthcare services available in the state. The study also assesses the regional variations in the healthcare facilities in the state. Methods/Statistical Analysis: In order to carry out the present study, the data was obtained from the secondary sources such as Health and family welfare department and department of Economics and Statistics, Government of J&K. The averages, percentages and comparative analysis of data have been made to draw logical inferences. Findings/Results: The results of the study reveal that huge amount of funds are required to establish adequate and requisite healthcare infrastructure in both rural and urban areas. The study further reveals that the state lacks qualified doctors/nurses/para-medical staff and other basic amenities resulting inaccessibility of the healthcare to only 40-50 percent of the population in the state. Application/Improvements: The study is of great applicability for the betterment of the society in general and the quality of life index of the people of the state in particular. This study can be an eye opener for the policy makers and planners, so that necessary step shall be taken to improve the healthcare and health status of the state especially in the rural areas where hardly any medical amenity is available to them.