This chapter addresses the critical supply side challenges facing healthcare systems in South Asian economies over the last 5 years. It highlights the significant shortages of healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and the high out-of-pocket expenses that hinder access to essential services. The chapter argues for the development of light-touch regulations that promote innovation while addressing malpractices, emphasising the need for increased public health expenditure and the potential role of experienced nurses in alleviating workforce shortages. It also explores the burgeoning medical tourism sector as a dual-edged sword, revealing disparities in healthcare access and quality across the region. The analysis underscores the importance of effective government interventions and regulatory frameworks to enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas, and advocates for regional cooperation to improve health outcomes. Ultimately, this chapter calls for a comprehensive approach to reform healthcare systems in South Asia, leveraging trade in services and collaborative efforts to build a resilient and equitable healthcare landscape.

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Health Care System in South Asia: Addressing Supply Side Challenges

  • Arindam Banik,
  • Sahana Roy Chowdhury,
  • Dona Ghosh

摘要

This chapter addresses the critical supply side challenges facing healthcare systems in South Asian economies over the last 5 years. It highlights the significant shortages of healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and the high out-of-pocket expenses that hinder access to essential services. The chapter argues for the development of light-touch regulations that promote innovation while addressing malpractices, emphasising the need for increased public health expenditure and the potential role of experienced nurses in alleviating workforce shortages. It also explores the burgeoning medical tourism sector as a dual-edged sword, revealing disparities in healthcare access and quality across the region. The analysis underscores the importance of effective government interventions and regulatory frameworks to enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas, and advocates for regional cooperation to improve health outcomes. Ultimately, this chapter calls for a comprehensive approach to reform healthcare systems in South Asia, leveraging trade in services and collaborative efforts to build a resilient and equitable healthcare landscape.