Indian Healthcare System Research Articles

An Analysis of Consumer Awareness Regarding Jan Aushadhi Kendras

India has made significant advancements in various health aspects, including an increase in the life expectancy of both men and women, low infant and maternal mortality rates, improved immunization coverage, and the elimination of diseases like polio and smallpox. According to the World Health Organization, around 5.8 million Indians succumb to diseases like diabetes, cancer, stroke, and heart and lung diseases. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a substantial health challenge in India, with one out of every four Indians dying before the age of 70 due to an NCD. The Indian healthcare system is grappling with rising healthcare costs, which disproportionately burden the poor, as well as the emergence of new diseases and non-communicable diseases. Approximately 100 million Indians fall into poverty each year due to high healthcare expenses, with out-of-pocket spending constituting over 50 percent of this burden. To reduce healthcare costs, the government has established Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which offer generic medicines with the same composition as branded ones at affordable prices. A recent study focused on identifying the key factors influencing the purchase of generic drugs from Jan Aushadhi medical stores, public awareness of these stores, and consumer satisfaction. The study found that 40 percent of the public is unaware of Jan Aushadhi, and consumers opt for generic medicines due to their affordability, even though the quality is lower than that of branded drugs. Jan Aushadhi Kendra is known for selling significant quantities of sanitary pads. While most consumers are satisfied with Jan Aushadhi products, some express dissatisfaction due to differences in quality and composition. Government agencies and health departments must enhance the quality of generic medicines and educate healthcare professionals and the general public about them.

Strengthening facility-based integrated emergency care services for time sensitive emergencies at all levels of healthcare in India: An implementation research study protocol

BackgroundThe healthcare system in India is tiered and has primary, secondary and tertiary levels of facilities depending on the complexity and severity of health challenges at these facilities. Evidence suggests that emergency services in the country is fragmented. This study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators of emergency care delivery for patients with time-sensitive conditions, and develop and implement a contextually relevant model, and measure its impact using implementation research outcomes.MethodsWe will study 85 healthcare facilities across five zones of the country and focus on emergency care delivery for 11 time-sensitive conditions. This implementation research will include seven phases: the preparatory phase, formative assessment, co-design of Model “Zero”, co-implementation, model optimization, end-line evaluation and consolidation phase. The “preparatory phase” will involve stakeholder meetings, approval from health authorities and the establishment of a research ecosystem. The “formative assessment” will include quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the existing healthcare facilities and personnel to identify gaps, barriers and facilitators of emergency care services for time-sensitive conditions. On the basis of the results of the formative assessment, context-specific implementation strategies will be developed through meetings with stakeholders, providers and experts. The “co-design of Model ‘Zero’” phase will help develop the initial Model “Zero”, which will be pilot tested on a small scale (co-implementation). In the “model optimization” phase, iterative feedback loops of meetings and testing various strategies will help develop and implement the final context-specific model. End-line evaluation will assess implementation research outcomes such as acceptability, adoption, fidelity and penetration. The consolidation phase will include planning for the sustenance of the interventions.DiscussionIn a country such as India, where resources are scarce, this study will identify the barriers and facilitators to delivering emergency care services for time-sensitive conditions across five varied zones of the country. Stakeholder and provider participation in developing consensus-based implementation strategies, along with iterative cycles of meetings and testing, will help adapt these strategies to local needs. This approach will ensure that the developed models are practical, feasible and tailored to the specific challenges and requirements of each region.

An Analysis of Consumer Awareness Regarding Jan Aushadhi Kendras

India has made significant advancements in various health aspects, including an increase in the life expectancy of both men and women, low infant and maternal mortality rates, improved immunization coverage, and the elimination of diseases like polio and smallpox. According to the World Health Organization, around 5.8 million Indians succumb to diseases like diabetes, cancer, stroke, and heart and lung diseases. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a substantial health challenge in India, with one out of every four Indians dying before the age of 70 due to an NCD. The Indian healthcare system is grappling with rising healthcare costs, which disproportionately burden the poor, as well as the emergence of new diseases and non-communicable diseases. Approximately 100 million Indians fall into poverty each year due to high healthcare expenses, with out-of-pocket spending constituting over 50 percent of this burden. To reduce healthcare costs, the government has established Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which offer generic medicines with the same composition as branded ones at affordable prices. A recent study focused on identifying the key factors influencing the purchase of generic drugs from Jan Aushadhi medical stores, public awareness of these stores, and consumer satisfaction. The study found that 40 percent of the public is unaware of Jan Aushadhi, and consumers opt for generic medicines due to their affordability, even though the quality is lower than that of branded drugs. Jan Aushadhi Kendra is known for selling significant quantities of sanitary pads. While most consumers are satisfied with Jan Aushadhi products, some express dissatisfaction due to differences in quality and composition. Government agencies and health departments must enhance the quality of generic medicines and educate healthcare professionals and the general public about them.

Legal Approaches To Addressing The Social Determinants Of Public Health: The Scenario In India

The enhanced scope, services, and rising investment by both public and private entities are driving the rapid and vigorous growth of the Indian healthcare system. Clinical trials, hospitals, medical equipment, telemedicine, health insurance, and medical appliances are all included in the scope of healthcare. Numerous factors, including our residence, heredity, environmental conditions, income, and education, all contribute to the health of individuals and communities and have significant effects on public health care.Environment and circumstances are major factors in determining an individual's state of health as well. For the health care system to be successfully implemented, it must be designed to adhere to specific human rights norms. A strong regulatory framework is essential to achieving favourable results for human health. By enforcing sanitary regulations on things like food safety, abattoir hygiene, and water quality monitoring, it reduces the likelihood of contracting diseases. The result is a shaky human health care system due to wide gaps in the enforcement, monitoring, and evaluation processes. This is also a result of inadequate funding for medical care for people, a lack of dedication and leadership on the part of health professionals, and a lack of community.

Revolutionizing Indian Healthcare: The Impact of Digital Health, AI, Telemedicine, and Data Security

Introduction: The Indian healthcare system is in the middle of a transformative shift, driven by innovations in digital health, artificial intelligence (AI), telemedicine, and data security. These technologies are restructuring healthcare delivery, with substantial implications for patient safety, access to care, and overall efficiency. Understanding their impact is important for stakeholders seeking to navigate and leverage these innovations for improved healthcare outcomes. Methodology: This review involved a thorough analysis of current literature, case studies, and statistical data. Sources were selected based on their relevance to digital health, AI, telemedicine, and data security within the Indian healthcare context. The analysis focused on examining the benefits and challenges associated with the integration of these technologies, as well as the influence of government policies on their adoption. Results: The review underlines both- the significant benefits and challenges of integrating these technologies into the Indian healthcare system. While advancements have led to improved patient safety, increased access to care, and enhanced efficiency, they also present challenges related to infrastructure, training, and data privacy. The role of government policies has been pivotal in facilitating the adoption and growth of these technologies, providing necessary regulatory support and strategic initiatives. Conclusion: The review underscores the transformative potential of digital health, AI, telemedicine, and data security in revolutionizing Indian healthcare. However, realizing this potential requires continued government support, strategic implementation, and addressing the challenges identified. A balanced approach is essential to leverage these technologies effectively for the betterment of the nation’s healthcare system.

Recent Scenario of the Indian Healthcare System Post COVID-19 Emergence and in Severely ill Patients

Abstract: The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has brought fundamental changes to our priorities and problems, especially those related to the healthcare sector. The COVID-19 pandemic put even the world's most advanced healthcare systems to the test and India's healthcare system has been rattled as well. In this accordance, the Indian government has introduced many new policies and schemes like free vaccination drive, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and free COVID care under Ayushman Bharat. With the continuation of COVID-19, problems like Self-medication and hoarding of medicines among the common population keep on rising and this was due to flu-like symptoms of COVID-19, miss information on social media, or due to less or no interaction between patients and doctors as the population is now shifting to telemedicine which offers the benefit of consultation at their own home. These situations served as a boon to the Pharma sector as stocks of many pharma companies and industries have been reported to have increased in the past 2 years of the pandemic due to an increase in demand and manufacturing and consumption of pharmaceutical goods and also reportedly being increased by alot in coming years. However, this rapid growth of the pharmaceutical sector is beneficial for pharmacists, businessmen, and others who are directly or indirectly associated with the healthcare fraternity but in our opinion, it will negatively impact the Indian economy or can be viewed as a problem which can lead to the downfall of the qualitative aspect of the pharma sector in the long term.

The Impact of Right to Health Under Legal Public Health Care System in India

An individual's right to health is fundamental to a decent life, hence it is important to examine the several aspects that support this right from different perspectives. Furthermore, since modern health care includes a larger social component in addition to an individualistic demand, this right must be examined in the context of the individual's personal and social life. Discrimination against members of society's most vulnerable groups women, children, the economically disadvantaged, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, including those who are mentally retarded means that people's right to health is violated. Additionally, this right is threatened by a number of other variables, including harmful working conditions and settings, natural disasters and wars, food and nutrition, housing and living situations, and forced population displacement. Therefore, in order to achieve the aim of "Health for All," this work advocated a right to health by assessing the impact of these several previously mentioned elements.

Exploring the need and potential of ambulatory pharmacy practice for empowering patient and care delivery in India.

In recent years, rapidly changing disease profile patterns, shortage & uneven utilization of healthcare professionals contributed massive burden on the Indian healthcare system, which resulted in varying, fragmented, inconsistent healthcare delivery to the patients and poor patient management. Patients often face and experience many challenges like lack of accessibility, poor patient-healthcare provider relationships, and inadequate quality of care, resulting in unnecessary economic burden in managing their health conditions. Thus Indian healthcare reform is essential in enhancing its capacity to fulfill patients' health needs that can be addressed by focusing on key sustainable strategies and initiatives meant for enhancing coordination of care, expanding services accessibility, redeveloping healthcare infrastructure, implementing workforce innovation and strong governance with the incorporation of core principles such as patient-centeredness, integrated care and collaborative care approaches. The clinical and ambulatory pharmacy practice are fragment of the healthcare delivery which delivers pharmaceutical care and fulfils the needs of patients across healthcare settings. This paper focuses on the present & future perspectives of ambulatory pharmacy practice in India and the factors to be considered for implementing it in patient care.

Hypertension: An Instagram analysis

Background Hypertension (HTN) or high blood pressure exerts a significant public health burden on cardiovascular health status and healthcare systems in India. With the internet now being used to search for information about medical conditions and treatment, the aim of the study was to review the posts and videos related to hypertension on Instagram and to check their authenticity.Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional observational study was conducted over a period of one month in August 2022, in which posts under different hashtags related to hypertension were analyzed. Information related to the type of post, number of likes and comments, the type of information provided, and information about the uploaders were collected. The information provided in the posts was cross-checked according to WHO guidelines for hypertension.Results: Out of 600 posts only 404 posts (67.3%) were related to hypertension.Our study revealed that 311 posts (76.98%) regarding Hypertension on Instagram are true and 242 posts (59.9%) were posted by the healthcare and welfare Industry. Majority of the posts are related to prevention of hypertension.Conclusions: According to our research, 30% of Instagram posts are unrelated to the category they are under. People will become aware that not everything they see on Instagram is true or pertinent to the issue by recognizing such posts and statistics regarding the misinformation that is present there.

E-Health Literacy in Physiotherapist of Gujarat: A Survey

In Recent years, digitalization has taken over many industries including healthcare professions worldwide, and India is no exception. According to 'National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)' -Making India a Digital Health Nation Enabling Digital Healthcare for all Strategy Overview of JULY-2020 significant technical shift will occur in healthcare system in India and so there is need of the study to investigate whether healthcare providers and seekers are ready for this change or not. There are limited researches available in literature in this area hence need of study arises. The aim of present study is to investigate the level of E-health literacy in Physiotherapist practising in India. MATERIALS & METHODS: Total 174 registered physiotherapist (123 females, 55 males) practicing in Gujarat participated in this survey. E-health literacy scale (Eheals) is a valid and reliable tool, it’s a self-administered questionary which has 5 points from which best suitable option will be chose by responder from strongly agree/very useful to strongly disagree. 90% of physiotherapist believed that the internet is a useful and important tool in making decisions related to healthcare and for accessing health-related information. Regardless of the high percentage regarding the usefulness and importance of the internet, the ability and skills of finding and utilizing health care resources electronically was noted moderate to low. CONCLUSION: E-health literacy was found moderate to low on Physiotherapist practicing in India. There are countless possibilities of further studies in this area with larger population size and various other components of E-health literacy. Keywords: E-Health, Digitalization in healthcare, Physiotherapist

Economic and Financial Concern of Digital Healthcare Systems for better Governance- An Indian Context

"Digital Healthcare Systems bear great promise for better governance in healthcare sector in India. The age of Digitization brought many benefits to many sectors of administrative functions and healthcare remains one of the biggest beneficiaries. Simultaneously there are many issues of economic and financial nature that have emerged during successful implementation of digitization in healthcare. Issues that remain to be resolved are discussed in this research work and the promise that digitization brings for a credible governance of healthcare has also been explained in this work. After getting independence from an exploitative colonial rule India has come a long way to establish her presence in the global arena in terms of agriculture, industry, services and technology sectors. In this research work this long journey of development as a young nation has been refereed. Similarly the challenges that have been successfully faced have also been mentioned. The fact remains that economic and financial aspects being the prime areas of concerns in any developmental work need to need to be addressed properly. Here in this concept paper a detailed analysis has been presented to discover the paradigm of healthcare systems in India and systematic efforts by both public and private sector to resolve the issues in this particular paradigm. Nations change and so does their approach to development. But technology as a key driver in this development process brings many similarities across the world, hence in this paper, this immense applicability of cutting edge technologies that digital world offers to all has been duly acknowledged. India’s adoption and proper utilization of digital healthcare to resolve many issues of economic and financial concerns can throw light and inspire many other developing nations in the Indian subcontinent, has been justifiably presented in this research work, citing the limitations of the approach as"

Integrated healthcare system in India: a conceptual framework

PurposeIndia has been on the pathway of improvement concerning healthcare and health outcomes of its population. However, India must overcome its unique challenges and cover a long journey ahead. This mandates a need for a high-quality, contemporary and community-based health system that promises consistent and quality healthcare, is trusted and valued by all its citizens, considers the changing population needs and should be affordable and accessible.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines various dimensions and elements associated with the integrated healthcare system in India and uses input, process and output structural measures.FindingsThe present paper proposes an integrated, comprehensive healthcare system in India that endorses participation from diverse stakeholders such as the government, organizations, the community and individuals who can contribute uniquely. It also focuses on defined and measurable output that can make health a topic of social movement or “Jan Andolan” and create a sustainable and integrated care system.Originality/valueThe study is unique as it focuses on the role of stakeholders in health care. The research emphasized the involvement of the government, community, people and organizations in developing an integrated healthcare ecosystem that includes modern technology, skilled employees, enough finance, governance, efficient delivery platforms and top-tier infrastructure. The model’s output is focused on healthcare that is inexpensive, accessible, available, accountable and user-centered. This would gradually improve everyone’s health and well-being.

Lack of Public Awareness and Prehospital Care in Severe Trauma Patients: The Weakest Link in the Indian Healthcare System

Lack of Public Awareness and Prehospital Care in Severe Trauma Patients: The Weakest Link in the Indian Healthcare System

Understanding Frailty: Perspectives and Experiences of Rural Older Adults in India.

In India, frailty has been predominantly studied as a physiological aspect, overlooking the subjective perceptions of community-dwelling older adults, which holds global significance. This study aims to explore frailty perceptions among community-dwelling older adults, comparing those enrolled in a geriatric welfare program facility to those not-enrolled. A cross-sectional design with a qualitative descriptive framework was employed, using focus group methodology. The study took place in rural West Bengal, located in eastern India, with a sample of 27 participants aged 60-87 years. Data collection occurred between October 2018 and January 2020, conducted through a face-to-face, semistructured discussion guide. Thematic analysis was performed to ensure data saturation and reliability. Three key themes emerged from the analysis: (a) Perceptions of frailty were associated with aging, functional dependence, and psychosocial health, (b) Exposure to a scientific definition led to an ideological dilemma influenced by personal experiences, (c) Walking speed and grip strength were prominent components of frailty. The findings revealed that there was no difference in perception between program-enrolled and nonenrolled older adults, likely due to the concept of frailty being new to all participants. However, it was noteworthy that participants enrolled in the welfare program exhibited a resilient mindset toward the definition and demonstrated a proactive interest in preserving their overall health. This novel study underscores the necessity of enhancing community awareness and integrating frailty management into the Indian health care system, which is yet to be fully integrated, aiming to promote the well-being of older adults.

Impact of Islamophobic myths on Indian healthcare

This paper explores how anti-Muslim myths, particularly the related neo-eugenic ideas of ‘population jihad,’ ‘love jihad,’ and ‘corona jihad’, work to stigmatise Muslims in India. I discuss how these ideas,...

An analysis of financial hardship faced by patients with First Episode Psychosis, and their families, in an Indian setting

BackgroundThe economic burden of psychotic disorders is not well documented in LMICs like India, due to several bottlenecks present in Indian healthcare system like lack of adequate resources, low budget for mental health services and inequity in accessibility of treatment. Hence, a large proportion of health expenditure is paid out of pocket by the households. ObjectiveTo evaluate the direct and indirect costs incurred by patients with First Episode Psychosis and their families in a North Indian setting. MethodDirect and Indirect costs were estimated for 87 patients diagnosed at AIIMS, New Delhi with first-episode psychosis (nonaffective) in the first- and sixth month following diagnosis, and the six months before diagnosis, using a bespoke questionnaire. Indirect costs were valued using the Human Capital Approach. ResultsMean total costs in month one were INR 7991 ($107.5). Indirect costs were 78.3% of this total. Productivity losses was a major component of the indirect cost. Transportation was a key component of direct costs. Costs fell substantially at six months (INR 2732, Indirect Costs 61%). Respondents incurred substantial costs pre-diagnosis, related to formal and informal care seeking and loss of income. ConclusionFamilies suffered substantial productivity loss. Care models and financial protection that address this could substantially reduce the financial burden of mental illness. Measures to address disruption to work and education during FEP are likely to have significant long-term benefits. Families also suffered prolonged income loss pre-diagnosis, highlighting the benefits of early and effective diagnosis.

Avanapparambu Maheswaran Namboothirippad – a life which preserved the knowledge of Ayurveda Vishachikitsa and Hastyayurveda

Abstract Avanapparambu Maheswaran Namboothirippad (AMN), a legendary physician of Vishachikitsa (toxicology) and Hastyayurveda (treatment of elephants through Ayurveda), has worked tirelessly to preserve these disciplines during their time of decline. Information on his life was collected through interviews with his family members and various secondary sources, including journals, books, and gray literature. His life epitomizes the transformation and upliftment that happened to Vishachikitsa in Kerala during his lifetime, along with the contributions of Ayurveda to the Indian public health care system through him. The lineage of Vishachikitsa will always pay tribute to the efforts of AMN in sustaining this knowledge in full glory during the time of its declining importance.

Conflict Dynamics in Indian Healthcare: An Exploratory Study on Primers of Conflict in Private Clinical Establishments of Kolkata

Healthcare conflicts are complicated and often dysfunctional in nature. The Indian healthcare system, with its thinning workforce, finds it increasingly difficult to meet the demands and expectations of its healthcare service recipients. Healthcare service providers like physicians, nurses, technical and administrative personnel work in a dynamic and stressful environment with resource and manpower limitations. Healthcare service recipients like patients and their families often face challenges regarding access to care, associated costs, time issues and other situational dynamics. These underlying situations often result in different types of conflicts in the workplace. The purpose of this exploratory study is to understand the factors that serve as primers for healthcare conflicts in the Indian scenario. Data were collected from hospital feedback forms for patients/patient families. The top 10 threads indicating the patient satisfaction factors and conflicting grounds were identified through content analysis, and that formed the basis of the semi-structured questionnaire schedules. Fifty semi-structured interviews were done with healthcare service recipients and healthcare service providers (25 in each set) in private clinical establishments of Kolkata, West Bengal. Four main themes and nine subthemes were identified that illustrated the grounds for healthcare conflicts in Indian settings. The identification of the causes of dissatisfaction and understanding their relationship with healthcare conflicts will go a long way in conflict management.

Innovation in Healthcare Through Information Technologies: A Review

The application of innovative information technologies in healthcare can definitely subside the present limitations of the healthcare industry through better affability and accessibility. It encompasses the use of artificial intelligence, big data, biomedical research including drug invention, medical education, innovative/robotic surgical technology, cutting-edge equipment, telemedicine, virtual consultation, online supportive platforms, etc. The present review is an attempt to identify and analyse the impact of these innovative information technologies and explore the potential scope of improvement in the Indian healthcare system. The database search was performed in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ProQuest, Google Scholar and Wiley Online Library. Initially, 319 articles related to innovative digital healthcare technologies have been sourced. However, 105 articles were taken into consideration for the review due to various exclusion criteria. Through an extensive review of previously published articles, the present study concludes that undoubtedly information technologies and their applications aid providers reduce inefficiencies, increasing quality, increasing access, removing human errors, reducing costs and making diagnosis, treatment and medicine more personalised for patients. It has really improved the quality, quick and convenient healthcare system.

Indian Clinician's Perspective on the Approach to the Management of Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Hypertension (HTN) is considered one of the most frequent life-threatening noncommunicable illnesses. Because HTN has a significant public health impact on cardiovascular health status and healthcare systems in India, it is critical to study Indian clinicians' approaches to HTN management. Methodology This was a cross-sectional, multicentric, non-interventional, and single-visit study that aimed to gather data from across India and examine sociodemographic characteristics and clinician treatment choices in the management of HTN in Indian individuals. As a result, building an information platform about HTN is critical to preventing and controlling this growing burden. Results A total of 5298 patients were recruited in the study from 1061 study centers across India. Among the study patients, 66.67% were females with a mean age of 53.95 ± 14.4, and 66.28% of hypertensive patients presented comorbidities. Among the known risk factors for HTN, 2227 (44.5%) were smokers, while 2587 (51.7%) had sedentary lifestyles. A family history of HTN in either one or both parents was seen in 1076 (21.50%) patients. In management, 40.40% of patients were on anti-hypertensive monotherapy.Amlodipine (41.8%) in monotherapy and amlodipine + metoprolol (32.34%) in combination therapy were the most commonly prescribed antihypertensive. Conclusion Management of HTN can be improved by imparting patient education and awareness about the need for medication compliance, lifestyle modifications, and regular follow-up clinic visits.