ASHA workers stage protest in Hassan, demand hike in remuneration
Origin:
Initiated in 2005 under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) to bolster rural healthcare infrastructure.
Who Are ASHAs?
ASHAs are female volunteers from local communities trained to promote health awareness and facilitate access to healthcare services.
Objective:
To bridge the gap between rural communities and the healthcare system, ensuring awareness and accessibility at the village level.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maternal and Child Healthcare: Supporting safe childbirth and antenatal care.
- Immunization Campaigns: Mobilizing communities for vaccination drives.
- Health Education: Spreading awareness about sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition.
- Support for National Health Programs: Assisting in initiatives like tuberculosis control and family planning.
Role of ASHAs in India’s Development:
- Enhancing Maternal and Child Health:
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- Institutional deliveries and antenatal care initiatives have significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates.
- Example: Institutional delivery rates rose from 47% in 2007 to 79% in 2022.
- Boosting Immunization Rates:
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- Encouraging community participation has improved child immunization coverage.
- Disease Surveillance:
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- Reporting outbreaks and facilitating early diagnosis under programs like the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program.
- Driving Behavioural Change:
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- Advocating for better sanitation, nutrition, and lifestyle habits has transformed public health practices.
- Bridging Healthcare Gaps:
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- Acting as intermediaries between rural populations and public health services.
Government Initiatives to Empower ASHAs:
- Remuneration and Incentives:
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- Increased pay and performance-based bonuses, announced in the 2018 budget.
- Insurance Coverage:
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- Free health insurance under Ayushman Bharat and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana.
- Skill Development:
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- Continuous training programs under the National Health Mission (NHM) for capacity building.
- Recognition and Digital Support:
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- Tools like Village Health Mapping and digital platforms to improve outreach and feedback.
- Improved Infrastructure:
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- Enhanced logistics and access to medical supplies for efficient service delivery.
Challenges Faced by ASHAs:
- Workload: Managing diverse responsibilities with limited support.
- Low Compensation: Delayed payments and lack of social security.
- Discrimination: Gender and caste biases, especially as many ASHAs belong to marginalized communities.
- Lack of Recognition: Limited acknowledgment of their contributions.
- Infrastructure Deficiencies: Inadequate transport and medical supplies.
Future Directions:
- Formalize Employment: Transition ASHAs from volunteer roles to formal employment with benefits.
- Enhanced Training and Tools: Modernize training programs and ensure regular supply of medical essentials.
- Financial Stability: Provide timely and higher pay, along with performance bonuses.
- Recognition Programs: Establish awards and public acknowledgments to boost morale.
- Digital Empowerment: Leverage technology for real-time data collection and communication.
ASHAs are integral to India’s healthcare framework, and addressing their challenges is vital for sustainable development in rural health.
