14 states consulted for National Health Policy so far: Nadda

Consultations on the proposed National Health Policy are at an advanced stage and two rounds of discussions with 14 states have already been held.
Disclosing this here today, Health Minister J P Nadda said all stakeholders, including the public, will be consulted before finalisation of the policy.
"Two rounds of exhaustive discussions with 14 states have already taken place and others will be consulted soon. We also plan to elicit the views of the public once the draft policy is prepared. We will put it in public domain," Nadda told PTI.
He said the Narendra Modi government will come out with a new health policy and deliver on its election promise of public health facilities for all.

Nadda, who is also a BJP general secretary, said after working out on various areas of the new policy the gaps in the health system have to be removed.
With the consultation process having started, Nadda sought support of doctors in formulating such a policy that will help bring relief to people on their medical needs. The process of discussion has started and a Steering Committee has also been formed for putting in place its areas.

The consultation process, he said, will be "complete and exhaustive" and all stakeholders will be involved, including doctors through formal and informal discussions. "No policy can be formulated without stakeholders," he said, adding the views of all will be sought before finalising such a policy.

"We would like to do it soon because we have to give the results also," he said.
The minister said the government's priority is to provide good medical facilities for all and for improving health infrastructure in the country, including in rural areas.
"This government is different. It is a pro-people and pro-active government and believes in delivery. This government is transparent and accountable. It is a responsive government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he added.