Competence and care for women: health policy perspectives in the household context
Chatterjee, M.
Gender and the household domain social and cultural dimensions: 165-190
1989
Document Number: 377290
Indian health policies, their bases, forms and effects, are examined in the framework of three propositions: that health outcomes and household activities are intimately linked; that, within the household, women are the main health care providers; and yet, paradoxically, women's own health, and the health care of children who are most dependent on women's care, is woefully poor. The paper next examines whether state policies take into account the needs and circumstances facing women in the household and, if so, how relevant policies are translated into programme strategies, and what their impact is on the health of women and the household. Existing programmes, including the training of village midwives, the provision of village health workers, family planning services and nutrition policies are discussed. Finally, a household-oriented approach to health policy is recommended.