Engaging the Private Sector to Address Urban Health Issues in India

Key Words – Urban poor, urban health, inclusive business, private sector participation Urban population in India has increased phenomenally over the last few decades. Limited economic opportunities in rural areas have drawn... [ view full abstract ]

Key Words – Urban poor, urban health, inclusive business, private sector participation

Urban population in India has increased phenomenally over the last few decades. Limited economic opportunities in rural areas have drawn people to cities in search of employment opportunities and a better life. However, most Indian cities lack the necessary infrastructure to provide quality services to the burgeoning urban population. Thus, the poor often settle in slums with almost no services and poor quality of life. To compound matters further, they are generally informally employed, live in poor health and sanitary conditions and have almost no social capital. Such vulnerable groups face a disproportionate burden of ill-health. The urban poor are chronically underserved when it comes to basic necessities, especially healthcare. Despite challenges of access, the urban poor represents a significant untapped market. However, in the last decade or so, the poor are being recognized as “clients” rather than “beneficiaries”, and healthcare sector has seen high numbers of innovations. Several inclusive business models (IBMs) today exist in healthcare delivery, outreach and in medical technologies. These IBMs have significant potential to improve the landscape and health outcomes for the poor in sustainable ways. Scaling up IBMs in the private sector would lessen the healthcare burden on the public health system. Increasing private sector participation in the provision of healthcare, would create a complete health ecosystem that provides affordable, accessible and quality healthcare services to the underserved.