The 75th session of the World Health Assembly is being conducted at the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters in Geneva from May 22nd to 28th, 2022. The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare has emphasized India’s commitment to constructing a resilient global health security architecture during this session.
Focus of the Assembly and Award Recognition
With the theme “Health for peace, peace for health,” this assembly marks the first in-person assembly since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. The event recognized six Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) workers from India with the Global Health Leaders Award for their outstanding contributions and commitment to regional health issues.
About the World Health Assembly
The World Health Assembly (WHA) serves as WHO’s primary decision-making unit, attended by delegates from all member states and convenes annually in Geneva, Switzerland. The assembly’s primary focus outlines specific health agendas planned by the Executive Board.
Functions of the WHA
Key functions of the WHA involve deciding on organization policies, appointing the Director-General of the WHO, administering financial policies, and reviewing and approving the proposed program budget.
Main Points of the Union Minister’s Address
During the 75th session, the Union Minister stressed the need to streamline the approval process of vaccines and therapeutics within the WHO. He also focused on the importance of an equitable access to medicines and vaccines, including intellectual property aspects. The minister also expressed concern over the WHO’s recent excess mortality due to Covid-19 exercise.
Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA)
ASHAs are integral components of the National Rural Health Mission (NHRM), typically women between 25-45 years serving as the first contact for health-related issues among marginalized rural populations, including women and children.
Role and Responsibilities of ASHA Workers
ASHA workers create awareness about health determinants, facilitate health services access, develop comprehensive health plans, provide primary medical care for minor issues, and keep the Sub-Centres/Primary Health Centre informed about births, deaths, disease outbreaks, and unusual health concerns in their assigned communities. Notably, they also arrange escorts for pregnant women and children who require treatment or admission to the nearest healthcare facility.
