In his first policy address at the inaugural session of the 16th Kerala Legislative Assembly here on Friday, the Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar announced two key policy decisions of the new government which can have significant impact on the State’s public health -- a new department for senior citizens’ welfare and a health insurance scheme which provides free annual health coverage of Rs. 25 lakh for every family under the “Oommen Chandy Aarogya Insurance Scheme”, one of the main guarantees under the five Indira Guarantees promised by the UDF government

The setting up of a dedicated department for senior citizens’ welfare carries much significance in a State already grappling with the crisIs of demographic transition, where 18.7% of the population is above 60 years and a chunk of whom suffer from chronic multimorbidities. A standalone department is expected to consolidate welfare, health measures which are currently fragmented across Social Justice, Health and Local Self Government departments, enabling its integration so as to provide a continuum of care for the elderly.

The health insurance coverage announced -- ₹25 lakhs per year per family -- requires further clarification in the coming days on whether the coverage is universal or if it will be restricted to BPL families and if this will be a new scheme to replace the existing Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhati.

In his policy address, Mr. Arlekar stressed that highest priority will be given to restoring and strengthening major public health institutions that have not received adequate attention in the past and that this will be part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the infrastructure and human resources of medical colleges, district hospitals and taluk hospitals in a balanced and equitable manner across the State. The government recognises healthcare as a fundamental public responsibility and is committed to preserving and strengthening Kerala’s public health system, which has historically been one of the strongest pillars of the State’s development model, he said.

Healthcare institutions at every level will be modernised with improved infrastructure, equipment, adequate stock of medicines and most importantly, adequate support of human resources. Primary health centres will receive special attention through digital integration and expanded specialist services. Greater emphasis will be placed on preventive healthcare, mental health services, palliative care and care of the elderly, alongside focused programmes for lifestyle diseases, cancer care, maternal health, child nutrition and community-based healthcare systems, the Governor said in his policy address.

Elderly-friendly

As part of elderly welfare initiatives, all cities in the State will be made elderly-friendly in a phased manner. The Vayomithram Project will be expanded to all block panchayats to provide home-based healthcare and mental health support services for senior citizens. A new programme known as “Care Cabin” will establish support centres in all Collectorates to provide legal aid, healthcare and protection services for senior citizens.

To address the growing incidence of cognitive impairment and dementia, Smrithi Cafes, dementia day-care centres and specialised memory clinics will be expanded across the State, along with awareness programmes promoting healthy ageing. The government will continue to strengthen medical education, nursing education and healthcare research, while positioning the State as a leading destination for quality and affordable healthcare services.

The government also pledges to accelerate the pace of modernisation across the public health system and to ensure that the legacy of Kerala’s health achievements is carried forward to new heights of quality, accessibility and equity, Mr. Arlekar said in his policy address.