Kerala IMA calls for equitable health policy

: Kerala chapter of Indian Medical Association, a body of medical doctors, has sought evolving an equitable health policy for the state to tackle emerging health challenges and ensure equitable delivery of services.
A "citizens' charter for health", adopted at the conclusion of the state meet here today, said it was important to make optimal use of the resources by putting in place transparent mechanisms and improving delivery methods.
It said an acceptable level of health care for all could be attained by the year 2025 through an optimal use of the existing and available resources was important.
A "evidence-based" state health policy, accepting the role of social determinants of health and ensuring the provision of safe drinking water and sanitation was also vital, it said.

Safe and healthy food, nutrition and housing, healthy working and environmental conditions, health education and information and gender equality should also be ensured, the charter said.
It noted that there existed gross inequality in the health status among the people of the state.
"People have a right to essential health care based on socially acceptable methods and standards made availabe at affordable cost.
It said people have a right and duty to participate individually and collectively in planning and implementation of health care activities including health promotion and disease prevention.