This document provides an overview of critical pathways and health care reforms. It defines critical pathways as guides that outline the expected course of care and interventions for patients with particular diagnoses or conditions. Developing critical pathways involves professionals collaboratively identifying standards of care. They standardize care while allowing for variances. Benefits include improved outcomes, efficiency, and satisfaction. Challenges include differences between patients and increased workload. Health care reforms aim to improve access, quality and affordability of care. The document discusses reforms in various countries and in India, including public-private partnerships, social insurance schemes, and programs like the National Rural Health Mission.