The RMPs in Rural Healthcare Market: Case Study of Indian Sundarbans

This paper reviews the role of rural medical practitioners in the context of rural healthcare market with special reference to the Indian Sundarbans. It discusses the RMP’s nexus with other providers in the healthcare market. It also shows who visits them, why visit them and their knowledge, attitude and practice. Given the overwhelming dominance of the RMPs in the rural healthcare market, this paper suggests that the RMPs should be incorporated into the formal health system after giving them some training. Incorporation of RMPs into the healthcare system is necessary for the universalization of healthcare services for the poor in the low and middle income countries.