The Right to Health Bill was passed in the Rajasthan Assembly on Tuesday, making it the first state to do so.
This bill grants every resident of the state the right to access free Out Patient Department (OPD) and In Patient Department (IPD) services at all public health facilities.
Additionally, selected private facilities will also provide similar healthcare services free of cost.
Right to Health Bill Passed Despite Opposition
The passage of this bill was not without obstacles, as it faced opposition from the BJP, which sought to make changes to the provisions.
Additionally, a section of doctors has been agitating for the withdrawal of the legislation.
According to the provisions of the bill, all public health institutions and selected private facilities will provide services such as consultation, drugs, diagnostics, emergency transport, procedures, and emergency care, subject to conditions specified in the rules.
Residents will be entitled to emergency treatment and care for accidental emergencies without the prepayment of any fees or charges.
No Delay in Treatment of Cases of Medico-Legal Nature
Under the new legislation, public and private hospitals cannot delay treatment in medico-legal cases solely because police clearance has not been received.
After providing emergency care, stabilizing the patient, and transferring the patient, healthcare providers are entitled to receive requisite fees and charges or proper reimbursement from the state government if the patient is unable to pay.
The newly passed Right to Health Bill in Rajasthan provides a total of 20 rights to the state’s residents, as per the government’s intentions to ensure protection,
fulfillment of rights, and equity in health and well-being under Article 47 and Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
The article states the duty of the state to raise the standard of living, improve public health, and secure the right to health, as per the expanded definition of personal liberty and protection of life.
