Centre increases expenditure for public healthcare

New Delhi, May 17: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the Centre has taken several steps in the healthcare sector to battle the Covid-19 pandemic.

The government also increased its expenditure on public healthcare. Sitharaman said, "All districts will have an infectious diseases' block. Public health labs will be set up at all block levels."

"Rs 15,000 crore have been announced for states, essential items, testing labs and kits, along with rolling out of teleconsultation services, the launch of Aarogya Setu application and protection to health care workers with adequate PPEs."

Health sector reforms: In brief

• Public expenditure on health will be increased
• Investments in the grassroots levels will be ramped up in urban and rural areas
• All districts will have infectious diseases hospital blocks
• Integrated public health labs in all districts and blocks
• Encouraging research by National institutional platform for one health by ICMR
• National digital health mission will be implemented