The ‘Health in India 2016’ report based on the 71st round of the National Sample (January-June, 2014) reveals that more than 70% of ailment spells were treated in the private sector. The majority rely on savings, and many rely on borrowings. Buying medicines for non-hospitalised treatment accounts for most of the cost. The situation has changed little since. Sadly, the government sector lacks capacity and fails to meet expectations.
Also, collusive behaviour in healthcare is well documented. Evidence from a study conducted in Assam (COHED Project) suggests the frequency of ‘referrals’ for diagnostic tests was very high. Doctors recommend a particular diagnostic laboratory. In many instances, these tests might not have been necessary. There is a ‘usual practice’ of paying commissions/cuts to the referring doctors by these diagnostic clinics and pathological labs.
Cooperatives worldwide have established themselves as successful players in various segments of the economy, e.g., credit and banking, dairy, marketing, housing, fisheries, fertilisers, handlooms, handicrafts, etc. On the other hand, cooperatives in the healthcare sector in the country are negligible so far. Nevertheless, there is no reason why cooperatives can not play a critical role. The Assam Healthcare Cooperative Society is the first of its kind, and it was established on the strength of citizens without government patronage. The cooperative is determined to address some of the problems cited above and be a strong and caring alternative by strategically intervening in the market based on the collective power of its members and well-established principles of cooperative spirit.
