P.V. Laxmiprasad
Health systems around the world are complex, dynamic, and constantly evolving. Across different nations and service levels, the management of health remains a top priority. The old saying “Health is wealth” has never been more relevant than it is today.
Maintaining good health is a universal goal. People employ various methods—traditional practices, modern medicine, fitness regimes, and lifestyle changes—to stay healthy. Yet, despite these efforts, good health is increasingly elusive. As people age, health issues inevitably arise, affecting them not only physically but also mentally and financially.
The rise of corporate healthcare has drastically altered the medical landscape. Once-promising innovations like telemedicine are already being replaced by newer technologies and research breakthroughs. However, with progress comes cost. Healthcare today, especially in corporate settings, is more expensive than ever—making quality treatment inaccessible to many, particularly in developing nations where economic instability is a persistent challenge.
Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and thyroid disorders have become widespread. In fact, almost nine out of ten people now suffer from some form of long-term illness, making regular medication a necessity. It’s no surprise that most households today keep a medical kit as a basic essential.
While health insurance offers some relief, it often falls short of covering the full cost of major treatments. Surgeries, especially those for kidney failure, heart disease, or cancer, can cost families several lakhs. Specialist consultations alone have become financially burdensome—an issue that has only worsened in the post-COVID era, where healthcare systems were stretched to their limits.
Global health indicators may show progress, but improvements are unevenly distributed. While some regions have made significant strides, others have regressed. For example, in Zimbabwe, the HIV/AIDS crisis has drastically reduced life expectancy, now at just 40.9 years. Each century seems to bring with it a new medical emergency. COVID-19 was just the latest, impacting even well-equipped nations like Italy and the United States.
In contrast, Cuba stands out with its strong public health model, providing one doctor for every 50 citizens—a ratio even wealthier countries struggle to match. In India, however, the scenario is mixed. While schemes like Ayushman Bharat are steps in the right direction, the cost of care at corporate hospitals remains unaffordable for large sections of the population. The doctor-to-patient ratio remains inadequate, and despite improvements, the affordability and accessibility of medicine are still major concerns.
The health crisis is not just medical—it is economic and social. As stress levels rise due to work and lifestyle pressures, the number of people facing mental and physical health issues continues to grow. The poor are hit hardest, often unable to afford even basic consultations, let alone major surgeries.
Looking ahead, the challenges are formidable. Climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and the ethical concerns surrounding digital health and data privacy all demand urgent attention. For India, with its vast and diverse population, a well-funded and inclusive healthcare strategy is not optional—it is essential.
What is needed is a dedicated health budget for the underprivileged, government-supported access to private healthcare facilities, and continuous monitoring of long-term health trends. India must treat healthcare as a top national priority, ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the pursuit of a healthy life.
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