Rakesh is a responsible district level officer, who enjoys the trust of his higher officials. Knowing his honesty, the government entrusted him with the responsibility of identifying the beneficiaries under a healthcare scheme meant for senior citizens.
The criteria to be a beneficiary are the following:
(a) 60 years of age or above.
(b) Belonging to a reserved community.
(c) Family income of less than 1 lakh per annum.
(d) Post-treatment prognosis is likely to be high to make a positive difference to the quality of life of the beneficiary.
One day, an old couple visited Rakesh’s office with their application. They have been the residenta of a village in his district since their birth. The old man is diagnosed with a rare condition that causes obstruction in the large intestine. As a consequence, he has severe abdominal pain frequently that prevents him from doing any physical labour. The couple have no children to support them. The expert surgeon whom they contacted is willing to do the surgery without charging any fee.
a. However, the couple will have to bear the cost of incidental charges, such as medicines, hospitalization, etc., to the tune of 1 lakh. The couple fulfills all the criteria except criterion
b. However, any financial aid would certainly make a significant difference in their quality of life.
c. How should Rakesh respond to the situation ? (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
Model Answer
Introduction
In this case study, Rakesh, a responsible district-level officer, is tasked with identifying beneficiaries for a healthcare scheme aimed at senior citizens. The scheme has specific eligibility criteria, including age, community status, family income, and potential health outcomes. Although the elderly couple seeking assistance meets all criteria except for belonging to a reserved community, Rakesh must approach the situation with empathy, considering their dire financial situation and the significant positive impact the treatment would have on their quality of life.
Body
To address the couple’s situation, Rakesh can take the following steps:
Conclusion
By approaching the situation with compassion and a commitment to exploring all possible avenues of assistance, Rakesh can make a well-informed decision that prioritizes the elderly couple’s well-being while adhering to the scheme’s established criteria as closely as possible.
Responding to the Situation: Ethical Considerations and Practical Solutions
1. Adherence to Established Criteria
Rakesh’s primary responsibility is to adhere to the criteria established for the healthcare scheme: age, reserved community status, income, and prognosis. In this case, the old couple meets all criteria except for belonging to a reserved community. Strict adherence to these criteria ensures fairness and uniformity in the distribution of benefits.
2. Evaluating the Exceptional Circumstance
Despite not meeting all criteria, the couple’s situation presents a significant need. Their financial constraints and the potential for improved quality of life through surgery highlight the humanitarian aspect of the case. The surgery, which is crucial for alleviating severe pain and improving their life quality, is supported by a willing surgeon, but the incidental costs pose a barrier.
3. Seeking Alternative Solutions
To address the couple’s needs while adhering to rules, Rakesh could explore the following options:
4. Ensuring Transparency and Fairness
Rakesh should ensure that any recommendation or decision is transparent and justified to maintain trust and integrity in the process. Documenting the couple’s situation and exploring all possible avenues for assistance aligns with ethical governance practices while respecting established criteria.
In conclusion, Rakesh should act compassionately by exploring alternative support mechanisms and advocating for exceptional consideration if necessary, ensuring both ethical adherence and humanitarian support.