NewKerala.com

India's Integrative Medicine Model Boosts Universal Health Coverage Goals

Anupriya Patel, India's Minister of State for Health, advocated for integrative medicine as a key to achieving Universal Health Coverage at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. She emphasized that combining Ayush systems with modern medicine is a strategic move to create a preventive and resilient health ecosystem. Patel outlined India's policy-driven approach, which has operationalized this model across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare levels. This includes delivering Ayush services at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and integrating traditional medicine into medical education.

Key Points: India's Integrative Healthcare Model for Universal Health Coverage

  • Shift from curative to preventive care
  • Integrate Ayush with modern medicine
  • Address non-communicable diseases
  • Scale evidence-based traditional models
2 min read

Integrative medicine model in public health to boost Universal Health Coverage: Anupriya Patel

Minister Anupriya Patel details India's policy-led integration of Ayush with modern medicine to build a preventive, resilient public health ecosystem.

"The convergence of AYUSH systems with modern medicine... as a strategic pathway to building a resilient, preventive, and people-centric health ecosystem. - Anupriya Patel"

New Delhi, Feb 5

Integrating Ayush with modern medicine in public health can help boost Universal Health Coverage, said Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, on Thursday.

Speaking at the third day of the World Governments Summit, held in Dubai, UAE, she highlighted the need to shift health systems towards prevention and long-term wellbeing.

Addressing the session "From Policy to Practice: Investing in the Future of Integrative Medicine", Patel noted that the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, mental health challenges, and lifestyle disorders driven by urbanisation, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and chronic stress requires moving beyond episodic, curative care.

"The convergence of AYUSH systems with modern medicine and public health frameworks as a strategic pathway to building a resilient, preventive, and people-centric health ecosystem. This approach aligns closely with the goals of Universal Health Coverage," the Minister said.

Patel also outlined India's policy-led and systems-driven approach to integrative healthcare.

She highlighted how India has pioneered the structured integration of its rich traditional medical systems with modern scientific medicine, translating ancient knowledge into scalable, evidence-based public health models with relevance for health systems worldwide.

According to the World Health Organisation, 88 per cent of member states have traditional systems of medicine that are culturally accepted.

Earlier, speaking in a media interview, Patel shared that integrative healthcare has been institutionalised in India.

The National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 provides a powerful mandate for integrative healthcare in India. Patel stated that the integrative healthcare model has been operationalised across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare systems in the country.

At the primary level, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the country now deliver traditional medicine services, including Ayush practices such as yoga and wellness.

Ayush blocks function at secondary healthcare facilities, and national tertiary institutions are establishing dedicated integrative healthcare units, the Minister said, adding the inclusion of traditional medicine in medical education systems.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good in theory, but execution is key. We need to ensure the quality and standardisation of Ayush treatments. Also, modern medicine doctors and Ayush practitioners must work as a team, not in silos. Hope this doesn't become just another government scheme on paper.
A
Ananya R
Finally! Focusing on prevention and wellness is the need of the hour. Our cities are full of stress and lifestyle diseases. Making yoga and Ayurveda accessible at primary health centers can truly change public health. Proud that India is leading this model.
D
David E
As someone working in global health, India's approach is being watched closely. Integrating traditional knowledge with evidence-based science is a complex but potentially revolutionary path for UHC. The key will be rigorous research to validate outcomes.
K
Karthik V
I hope this means more trained professionals and better facilities at the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. In my village, the health center is there but often lacks staff or medicines. Integration must come with proper funding and monitoring.
S
Sneha F
This is our ancient wisdom meeting modern needs. For chronic issues like diabetes or back pain, a combination of diet (Ayurvedic), yoga, and modern medicine can do wonders. It's cost-effective too. A holistic model is the future.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50