New Delhi: The World Bank has approved a USD 280 million loan to strengthen Kerala’s healthcare system and enhance the quality of life for around 11 million elderly and vulnerable citizens.

Focus on universal access and digital health

The Kerala health system improvement programme seeks to expand access to healthcare, modernise digital health systems, and make the state’s health infrastructure more resilient to climate-related challenges.

According to the World Bank, “The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors have approved a new programme to improve the life expectancy and quality of life for 11 million elderly and vulnerable people in the state of Kerala through wider access to health coverage and resilient health systems.”

The initiative will track and manage treatment for more than 90 percent of patients registered with hypertension and diabetes through electronic monitoring systems. It will also introduce a home-based care model for bedridden, homebound and elderly individuals to provide them with comprehensive health services.

Improving preventive care and women’s health

The programme also targets better management of chronic diseases and screening for women’s cancers.

“The programme will ensure a 40 per cent increase in patients whose hypertension is controlled and 60 per cent increase in cervical and breast cancer screening for women to accelerate efforts to end preventable deaths,” said Paul Procee, the World Bank’s Acting Country Director for India.

Partnership with local governments

Implementation will involve collaboration with local bodies such as gram panchayats and municipal corporations. The initiative will standardise antibiotic use protocols, strengthen laboratory networks and improve response systems for zoonotic disease outbreaks.

Climate-resilient health infrastructure

Primary health facilities in districts like Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kasaragod, Palakkad and Alappuzha will adopt climate-smart strategies to improve energy efficiency and cope with extreme weather events such as heat and floods.

Loan terms

The USD 280 million loan, extended by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), carries a 25-year maturity period with a five-year grace period, the World Bank said.

PTI