Healthcare Policies in India Post-Pandemic: How the Country is Reshaping Public Health

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged India’s healthcare system in ways never seen before. It exposed the weaknesses in infrastructure, human resources, and access to care—especially in rural and underserved areas. But it also became a turning point. Since 2020, India has taken meaningful steps to reshape how healthcare is delivered, aiming for wider access, stronger systems, and better public health outcomes.

In this article, we explore how India’s healthcare policies have evolved post-pandemic, what reforms are currently being implemented, and what this means for the future of Indian citizens.

Strengthening Primary Health Services: Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

One of the major healthcare policy changes post-pandemic is the creation of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs). These are upgraded primary health centres that aim to provide basic healthcare close to people’s homes. Under the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, states like Delhi are actively identifying hundreds of sites to build these centres.

These Mandirs are designed to offer preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative services all under one roof. They are also equipped to provide mental health support, maternal and child care, and services for non-communicable diseases. The idea is simple: bring essential services within walking distance, especially for vulnerable and low-income communities.

First Post recently highlighted the relevance of this development in improving healthcare access across regions where public facilities were previously underutilised or non-existent.

Empowering the Frontline: Training and Expanding ASHA Workers

Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) have been the backbone of community healthcare in India. During the pandemic, their role became even more critical. Recognising this, the government is now expanding their responsibilities and offering more training.

In Delhi, nearly 2,000 ASHA workers are being trained in mental health support, geriatric care, and managing chronic diseases. Additionally, the recruitment of over 1,000 new ASHAs is underway. These workers are expected to bridge the gap between formal healthcare systems and local communities, ensuring no one is left behind.

This expansion directly supports the goal of improving public health at the grassroots level, as discussed in recent features by First Post.

Moving Towards Digital Healthcare Systems

Digital transformation is another major area of focus. The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) has launched a digital platform to streamline healthcare access for millions of government employees and pensioners. This new portal enables online appointment booking, simplified payments, and faster service delivery.

Meanwhile, the Indian Railways Health Services has digitised referrals and medical records for over 66 lakh beneficiaries. This move aims to cut down administrative delays and make access to cashless treatment more efficient.

In a report published by First Post, experts have pointed out that digital solutions could significantly reduce waiting time, human error, and costs while improving patient satisfaction across the board.

Expanding State-Level Infrastructure

Various state governments are stepping up to improve healthcare capacity. For example, Madhya Pradesh has introduced health insurance coverage for all state government employees. Punjab is planning to open 208 more Ayushman Arogya Kendras to supplement its existing 242 facilities. Uttar Pradesh is promoting AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) by announcing plans to set up integrated colleges across its divisions.

These initiatives aim to localise healthcare services, reduce patient overload in tertiary hospitals, and make traditional systems of medicine more accessible to the public.

This decentralised approach aligns with the objectives highlighted in First Post, which often emphasises the need for inclusive healthcare policy implementation.

Expanding Access Through Telemedicine

During the pandemic, telemedicine emerged as a powerful tool to reach patients in remote locations. Post-pandemic, states like Telangana have continued to invest in this technology. Through platforms like the Sanjeevani portal, over 2.23 crore people have received virtual consultations over the past three years.

These virtual services have become essential in rural and tribal areas where access to doctors is still limited. They reduce travel costs, save time, and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. The integration of telemedicine into regular healthcare services shows how innovation is solving age-old challenges.

According to a review featured in First Post, telemedicine is not just a temporary solution, but a long-term strategy to improve healthcare access nationwide.

Affordable Medicines and Senior Citizen Health Coverage

Two other key reforms have focused on affordability and inclusivity. First, the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana has expanded its network of generic medicine stores to over 14,000 locations. These stores sell essential medicines at prices up to 90% lower than branded alternatives.

Second, the government has increased free health cover for citizens above 70 years of age, offering ₹5 lakh in annual insurance under schemes like Ayushman Bharat. This decision could impact nearly 60 million elderly citizens, who often struggle with healthcare costs.

Such developments ensure that the most vulnerable sections of society are not left behind as India reimagines its healthcare future.

Conclusion: A Positive Shift in Public Healthcare

India’s post-pandemic healthcare policies show a clear intention to build a more resilient, accessible, and affordable system. From the grassroots initiatives like ASHA training and Arogya Mandirs to tech-driven innovations in telemedicine and digital health records, the direction is positive.

There is still work to be done. Challenges like workforce shortages, funding gaps, and rural-urban disparities remain. However, the steps being taken today lay the foundation for a healthier India tomorrow.

To stay informed on these policy changes and updates, continue following First Post — your trusted source for news that matters.