Healing the Planet, Healing Ourselves: Climate-Conscious Healthcare (Part 2)

In Part 1, we explored how hospitals and clinics can reduce their environmental footprint through energy efficiency and waste management. In this second installment, we focus on supply chains, transport, and digital health—areas often overlooked but rich with opportunity.

The Carbon Cost of Healthcare Supply Chains

From syringes to surgical gloves, most medical supplies travel hundreds or thousands of kilometers before reaching a hospital. These journeys rely heavily on fossil fuels, especially in India where road transport dominates.

Case Example: At Sanjeevani Hospital in Nashik, the procurement team noticed that their surgical gowns were shipped from a manufacturer in China, routed through Mumbai, and trucked to Nashik. The carbon footprint was enormous. They switched to a local supplier in Pune who used recycled fabric and electric delivery vans. The result? A 70% reduction in transport emissions and faster delivery times.

Actionable Tip: Hospitals should audit their supply chains and prioritize local, low-emission vendors. Even small shifts—like sourcing IV fluids from a nearby facility—can make a big difference.

Greening Medical Transport

Ambulances, mobile clinics, and staff vehicles are essential—but they’re also major polluters. Transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid models is a powerful step.

Case Example: In Bhor Block, Pune, the local health center partnered with an NGO to pilot electric ambulances for maternal care. These vehicles were quieter, cheaper to run, and emitted zero tailpipe pollution. Over 18 months, they saved ₹3.5 lakh in fuel costs and reduced respiratory complaints in nearby villages.

Actionable Tip: Clinics and hospitals can start small—replace one vehicle at a time, or offer EV charging stations to staff. Partner with local governments for subsidies and pilot programs.

Digital Health: Low Carbon, High Impact

Telemedicine isn’t just convenient—it’s climate-friendly. Every virtual consultation avoids a commute, saving fuel and reducing emissions.

Case Example: Dr. Meera, a general practitioner in Thane, shifted 40% of her follow-up appointments to video calls. Her patients—many from Virar and Vasai—no longer had to travel 2 hours each way. Over a year, this saved an estimated 12,000 km of travel, equivalent to 2.5 tons of CO₂ emissions.

Actionable Tip: Doctors can offer virtual care for routine check-ins, prescription renewals, and mental health support. Hospitals can create hybrid models with digital triage and in-person follow-ups.

Biomedical Engineers: Designing for Sustainability

Biomedical engineers play a crucial role in shaping the tools of healthcare. By designing energy-efficient devices, promoting modular repairs, and reducing single-use components, they can dramatically lower emissions.

Case Example: At a medical college in Chennai, a team of engineers redesigned a neonatal warmer to use phase-change materials instead of constant electricity. The device stayed warm for 8 hours without power and was ideal for rural clinics. It won a national innovation award and is now being scaled across Tamil Nadu.

Actionable Tip: Encourage biomedical teams to collaborate with clinicians and sustainability experts. Host “green hackathons” to solve real-world problems with low-carbon solutions.

Building a Climate-Conscious Culture

Sustainability must be woven into the fabric of healthcare—not just as a policy, but as a mindset.

Case Example: At Aarogyam Hospital in Jaipur, the leadership added a “Green Pledge” to staff orientation. Every employee committed to simple actions: turning off unused lights, reporting leaks, and minimizing paper use. Over time, these micro-habits created a culture of environmental responsibility.

Actionable Tip: Create visual reminders, green champions, and monthly challenges. Celebrate eco-friendly behavior just like clinical excellence.



Note: Names and locations have been changed to protect identities and maintain confidentiality.



#HealthcareAndClimateChange #SustainableHospitals #GreenHealthcare #BiomedicalInnovation #ClimateActionIndia #HospitalManagement #HealthcareLeadership #EnvironmentalResponsibility #PublicHealthIndia #StrategicPlanning #DigitalHealthIndia #EcoFriendlyCare #ClimateConsciousCare #HealingWithHeart #HumanizeHealthcare #OperationalExcellence

Building a Culture of Care: From Systems to Sentiment

Patient Experience & Leadership

In the bustling corridors of hospitals and clinics across India, something deeper than medicine is at play. It’s the feeling a patient gets when a nurse remembers their name, when a doctor listens without rushing, or when a receptionist offers a reassuring smile. These moments, though small, are the building blocks of a culture of care.

But how do we move from isolated acts of kindness to a system-wide sentiment of compassion? The answer lies in leadership—not just at the top, but across every level of healthcare.

Systems Matter, But Sentiment Moves Hearts

Healthcare systems are designed to be efficient: appointment scheduling, diagnostics, treatment protocols. These are essential. But efficiency alone doesn’t heal. Sentiment—the emotional experience of being cared for—is what patients remember.

Take the example of Meera, a 62-year-old diabetic patient at a government hospital in Pune. She was used to long waits and rushed consultations. But one day, a junior doctor took an extra five minutes to explain her insulin dosage using simple visuals. That small gesture made Meera feel seen and respected. She began following her treatment more diligently, and her health improved.

This isn’t just good bedside manner—it’s leadership in action.

Leadership at Every Level

Leadership in healthcare isn’t confined to CEOs or department heads. It’s the ward boy who ensures the bed is clean before a new patient arrives. It’s the lab technician who double-checks a report because something feels off.

Consider Dr. Ramesh, a senior physician in Chennai. He noticed that many patients were missing follow-up appointments. Instead of blaming them, he initiated a simple reminder system via WhatsApp. Within a month, follow-up rates improved by 40%. His initiative didn’t require a budget or board approval—just empathy and action.

Leadership is about noticing gaps in care and stepping up to fill them.

Building Systems That Support Sentiment

While individual acts of care are powerful, they need to be supported by systems. For example:

• Training programs that include empathy and communication, not just clinical skills.
• Feedback loops where patients can share their experiences and staff can learn from them.
• Recognition systems that celebrate not just medical excellence but compassionate care.

At a private hospital in Mumbai, a monthly “Care Champion” award is given to staff members who go above and beyond in patient care. One month, it was awarded to a security guard who helped a lost elderly patient find her way to the right department. That recognition sent a message: every role matters.

Listening is Healing

One of the simplest ways to build a culture of care is to listen. Not just to symptoms, but to stories.

Anjali, a young mother in Delhi, came in for a routine check-up. She seemed anxious, and the nurse asked gently, “Is everything okay?” Anjali broke down, sharing her fears about her child’s health. The nurse didn’t offer medical advice—just a listening ear. That moment of connection made Anjali feel safe, and she later said it was the most comforting part of her visit.

Listening isn’t a soft skill—it’s a healing tool.

From Sentiment to Sustainability

Creating a culture of care isn’t a one-time effort. It requires ongoing commitment. Leaders must model compassion, encourage feedback, and invest in staff well-being. Burnt-out caregivers can’t offer warmth.

Hospitals that prioritize staff mental health—through counseling, flexible shifts, or peer support—often see better patient outcomes. Because when caregivers feel cared for, they pass it on.

The Way Forward

India’s healthcare system is vast and diverse. From urban multispecialty hospitals to rural clinics, the challenges vary. But the need for a culture of care is universal.

Let’s move beyond metrics and protocols. Let’s build systems that support sentiment. Let’s empower every healthcare worker to lead with empathy.

Because in the end, healing isn’t just about medicine—it’s about humanity.


Note: Names and places have been changed to protect the identities and maintain confidentiality


#PatientCare #HealthcareIndia #LeadershipInAction #CompassionateCare #EmpathyInMedicine #treatment #hospitalstay #patientcare #PatientExperience #HealthcareQuality #CareCulture #TransformationalLeadership #MedicalLeadership #HospitalLeadership #IndiaHealthSystem #PublicHealthIndia #HealthForAll #CareBeyondMedicine #HumanizeHealthcare #HealthcareStories #BetterHealthTogether #HealingWithHeart #doctors #nurses #healthcareprofessioanls #healthcaretraining #careatheart #caregivng #caregiver 

Healing the Planet, Healing Ourselves: Climate-Conscious Healthcare (Part 1)

In 2025, the healthcare sector faces a paradox: while it exists to heal, it also contributes significantly to environmental harm. If global healthcare were a country, it would be the fifth-largest carbon emitter. From energy-hungry equipment to single-use plastics, the sector’s footprint is growing—and so is its responsibility.

But here’s the good news: hospitals, clinics, doctors, and biomedical engineers are uniquely positioned to lead climate action. Not just because they understand health—but because they understand urgency.

The Hidden Link: Fossil Fuels and Healthcare

Most healthcare facilities don’t burn fossil fuels directly. But they rely on them indirectly—through electricity, transport, manufacturing, and supply chains.  

• MRI machines, for example, consume massive energy, often powered by coal-based grids.
• Ambulances and medical transport run on diesel.
• Pharmaceuticals and medical devices are produced in energy-intensive factories.
• Air conditioning and sterilization systems run 24/7 in hospitals.

Every diagnosis, every procedure, every pill has a carbon cost.

Creative Measures for Hospitals and Clinics

Let’s explore some innovative, practical strategies that healthcare leaders can adopt:

1. Green Energy Transitions

Hospitals can shift to solar or hybrid energy systems, especially in regions with high sunlight.

Example: A rural hospital in Maharashtra installed rooftop solar panels for its ICU and lab. It reduced grid dependency by 40% and saved ₹1.2 lakh annually.

2. Smart HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are major energy drains. Smart systems adjust temperature based on occupancy and time of day.

Example: A Bengaluru clinic installed motion-sensor air conditioning in consultation rooms. Energy use dropped by 30%.

3. Eco-Friendly Procurement

Choose suppliers who use sustainable packaging, low-emission transport, and ethical sourcing.

Example: A diagnostic center in Jaipur switched to a vendor offering reusable sample containers. Waste generation fell by 60%.

4. Waste Segregation and Recycling

Biomedical waste is a hazard—but not all waste is biomedical. Proper segregation allows recycling of paper, plastics, and metals.

Example: A multispecialty hospital in Delhi trained staff to separate recyclable waste. Within six months, 3 tons of material were diverted from landfills.

5. Green Building Design

New facilities should be designed with natural lighting, passive cooling, and rainwater harvesting.

Example: A cancer care center in Kerala built its new wing with terracotta cooling tiles and skylights. It reduced energy bills and improved patient comfort.

Role of Doctors and Biomedical Engineers

Doctors and engineers can be climate advocates in their own domains:

• Doctors can prescribe digital consultations when possible, reducing travel emissions.
• Biomedical engineers can design energy-efficient devices and promote repair over replacement.
• Surgeons can opt for reusable surgical kits where safe and feasible.
• Radiologists can schedule imaging to optimize machine usage and reduce idle time.

Example: A radiology team in Chennai created a shared imaging calendar across departments. It reduced machine downtime and saved 15% on energy.

A Culture of Climate-Conscious Care

Climate action in healthcare isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about mindset. Leaders must embed sustainability into mission statements, training modules, and daily routines.

Example: A hospital in Ahmedabad added “environmental stewardship” to its core values. Staff began suggesting green ideas, from composting to carpooling.

Note: Names and locations have been changed to protect identities and maintain confidentiality.

#HealthcareAndClimateChange #SustainableHospitals #GreenHealthcare #BiomedicalInnovation #ClimateActionIndia #HospitalManagement #HealthcareLeadership #EnvironmentalResponsibility #PublicHealthIndia #StrategicPlanning #CareWithEmpathy #HealingWithHeart #HumanizeHealthcare #OperationalExcellence #ClimateConsciousCare

Admission Alert: What Every Patient Should Know Before Entering a Hospital

You’re standing at the hospital’s front desk. You’re anxious. Your loved one is unwell. You’re handed a form, asked to sign, and told to wait. What just happened?

Most patients walk into hospitals with trust—but not always with clarity. And that’s where things can go wrong.

The Patient’s Playbook: Admission Edition

1. Know What You’re Signing

That admission form isn’t just a formality—it’s a contract. It may include clauses about consent, billing, procedures, and even arbitration.

Tip: Ask for a copy. Read it. If unsure, take a photo and consult someone. You have the right to understand.

2. Ask for a Cost Estimate

Hospitals often provide a “tentative estimate” for treatment. It’s not binding, but it gives you a ballpark.

Example: A patient in Pune was quoted ₹60,000 for a surgery. The final bill was ₹1.2 lakh due to ICU stay and additional tests. Had they asked for a breakdown, they could’ve planned better.

Tip: Ask: “What’s included in this estimate? What could change?”

3. Understand the Room Charges

Room type affects not just comfort—but billing. In many hospitals, your room category determines your procedure cost, doctor fees, and even medication markup.

Tip: Ask: “How does room selection affect my total bill?”

4. Clarify Who Will Treat You

Patients often assume the consultant they met will handle everything. But in reality, junior doctors, residents, or duty doctors may be involved.

Tip: Ask: “Will my consultant be present during key procedures?”

5. Know Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Be informed about your diagnosis and treatment
• Refuse procedures
• Get a second opinion
• Access your medical records
• Be treated with dignity

Tip: Hospitals rarely volunteer this info. You must ask.

6. Watch for Add-On Procedures

Sometimes, additional tests or procedures are recommended during admission. Some are necessary. Others may be precautionary or revenue-driven.

Example: A patient admitted for gallbladder surgery was advised a cardiac stress test “just to be safe.” It delayed surgery and added ₹8,000/- to the bill.

Tip: Ask: “Is this test essential for my current condition?”

7. Insurance Doesn’t Cover Everything

Even with insurance, you may pay for:

• Non-medical items (gloves, syringes, etc.)
• Room upgrades
• Certain diagnostics
• Co-pay percentages

Tip: Ask for a pre-authorization letter and a list of exclusions.

Final Thought: Admission Is Not a Blindfold

Hospitals are places of healing—but also of systems, paperwork, and economics. The more informed you are at the point of admission, the smoother your journey will be.

This is Part 1 of a series designed to empower patients—because informed patients make better decisions, recover faster, and avoid unnecessary stress.

#PatientEmpowerment #HospitalAdmission #HealthcareIndia #KnowYourRights #SmartPatients #MedicalTransparency #HospitalBilling #PatientEducation #HealthcareLeadership #WednesdayWisdom

The Human Touch in a Digital Age: How Hospitals Can Balance Tech and Empathy

Introduction

Healthcare is rapidly evolving with technological innovation transforming hospital workflows, diagnostics, and patient engagement. Yet, amidst this digital revolution, hospitals must fiercely protect what AI and automation cannot replace: the human touch. Empathy, compassionate communication, and emotional support remain critical to patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes, and brand loyalty.

The Current Landscape of Healthcare Technology Digital tools have made staggering improvements in reducing human error, streamlining appointment systems, and enabling remote consultations. From electronic health records (EHRs) to AI-powered diagnostics, technology drives efficiency and extends care reach. In India and abroad, telemedicine platforms are expanding access for rural and underserved populations.

However, technology can never fully replicate human connection. Patients want more than accurate data and fast appointments—they want to feel heard, trusted, and respected. A recent survey found that while 75% of patients appreciate telehealth convenience, 62% still prefer an empathetic in-person consultation when possible.

Risks of Over-Reliance on Technology

Overdependence on technology risks depersonalizing care. Automated messages may come off as cold or generic. Excessive screen time by clinicians reduces direct eye contact and listening quality. In some hospitals, workflow automation has inadvertently increased patient wait times due to system glitches or poor integration.

Such gaps risk eroding patient trust and satisfaction, with consequences for hospital reputation and retention. Healthcare leaders must address these risks proactively.

Practical Strategies to Balance Tech and Empathy:

1. Train Staff in Compassionate Communication. Technology can support, but empathy depends on people. Regular training programs should emphasize listening skills, respectful tone, and personalized explanations. Role-playing common scenarios boosts staff confidence in navigating sensitive conversations, whether virtual or face-to-face.

2. Use Technology to Free Up Time for Human Interaction. Automate administrative tasks—scheduling, billing, basic inquiries—so clinicians can allocate more time to meaningful patient engagement. For example, AI chatbots can handle FAQs before appointments, allowing doctors to focus on building rapport.

3. Design Workflows that Prioritize Patient Interaction. Hospitals should measure not just efficiency metrics but “human connection” indicators such as time spent on direct patient communication. Feedback systems should solicit patient perceptions of empathy, not only speed.

4. Employ Hybrid Models of Care. Combine digital and in-person care pathways based on patient needs and preferences. For routine follow-up or counseling, telehealth may suffice. For complex or emotional cases, prioritize personal consultation with supportive staff.

5. Incorporate Patient Voices in Tech Design. Involve patients in developing or selecting healthcare technologies to ensure user-friendliness and cultural appropriateness. Co-creating tech solutions fosters trust and avoids alienating users unfamiliar with digital tools.

Impact of Balanced Care on Patient Satisfaction and Brand Loyalty. Hospitals investing in empathetic technology integration see higher patient satisfaction scores and repeat visits. Brand loyalty improves when patients consistently experience respectful treatment enhanced—not replaced—by technology.

Leaders who champion the human-tech balance also inspire staff engagement, reducing burnout by focusing on meaningful patient relationships rather than administrative overload.

Conclusion

The future of healthcare depends on harmonizing innovative technology with genuine human care. Indian and global hospitals must lead with heart as well as hardware, ensuring that every digital advancement serves to deepen—not diminish—the healing connection.

#DigitalHealthcare #EmpathyInCare #HospitalLeadership #PatientExperience #HealthcareInnovation #IndiaHealthcare #hospitals #patients #patientcare #treatment #medicine #healthcare #healthcaretechnologm #aiinhealthcare #ai

Healing the Planet, Healing Ourselves: Climate-Conscious Healthcare (Part 3)

In previous parts, we explored how hospitals and clinics can reduce their carbon footprint through energy, transport, and digital health. In this third installment, we turn to infrastructure—the buildings, systems, and spaces that shape healthcare delivery.

Why Hospital's Infrastructure Matters

Hospitals are among the most energy-intensive buildings in any city. They run 24/7, require strict temperature control, and house complex equipment. But they also offer immense potential for climate resilience and sustainability.
Designing Climate-Resilient Hospitals

India’s diverse climate—from coastal humidity to Himalayan cold—demands region-specific design. A one-size-fits-all approach leads to waste and inefficiency.

Case Example: Shanti Seva Hospital in Bhubaneswar faced frequent flooding during monsoons. In 2024, they rebuilt their outpatient wing on stilts, added permeable paving, and installed rainwater harvesting tanks. The result? Zero flood-related closures and a 40% reduction in water bills.

Actionable Tip: Hospitals in flood-prone areas should elevate critical zones, use water-absorbing landscaping, and install backup solar power for emergencies.

Passive Cooling and Natural Light

Instead of relying solely on air conditioning, hospitals can use passive cooling techniques—like cross-ventilation, reflective roofs, and shaded courtyards.

Case Example: A maternity hospital in Udaipur redesigned its waiting area with jaali screens, high ceilings, and north-facing windows. The space stayed cool even in peak summer, reducing AC usage by 50%.

Actionable Tip: Architects should prioritize natural light and airflow in new builds. Retrofitting older buildings with skylights and ventilators can also help.

Smart Energy Systems

Hospitals can install energy dashboards to monitor real-time usage and identify waste. These systems help staff make informed decisions.

Case Example: At Aarogya Multispecialty in Nagpur, the facilities team noticed unusually high energy use in the pathology lab. Investigation revealed that centrifuges were left running overnight. A simple scheduling fix saved ₹80,000 annually.

Actionable Tip: Use smart meters and dashboards to track usage. Train staff to interpret data and act on it.

Water Conservation in Healthcare

Hospitals use vast amounts of water—for cleaning, sterilization, and patient care. But much of it can be reused or conserved.

Case Example: A dialysis center in Surat installed a greywater recycling system. Water used for handwashing and cleaning was filtered and reused for gardening. Over a year, they saved 1.5 lakh liters.

Actionable Tip: Install low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets, and water recycling systems. Monitor usage and set reduction targets.

Sustainable Materials and Interiors

From flooring to furniture, hospitals can choose low-emission, recyclable materials that reduce indoor pollution and environmental impact.

Case Example: A pediatric clinic in Bengaluru replaced vinyl flooring with bamboo composite tiles—durable, non-toxic, and locally sourced. Parents reported fewer allergy complaints, and the clinic earned a green building certification.

Actionable Tip: Avoid PVC, formaldehyde-based adhesives, and synthetic carpets. Choose natural, locally sourced materials wherever possible.

Leadership and Long-Term Planning

Sustainable infrastructure requires vision. Leaders must integrate climate goals into master plans, budgets, and vendor selection.

Case Example: A hospital chain in Kerala created a “Green Infrastructure Roadmap” for all new projects. It included solar feasibility, rainwater harvesting, and LEED certification targets. Within two years, three new facilities met green building standards.

Actionable Tip: Include sustainability metrics in RFPs and vendor contracts. Appoint a green officer or committee to oversee implementation.

Note: Names and locations have been changed to protect identities and maintain confidentiality.

#HealthcareAndClimateChange #SustainableHospitals #GreenInfrastructure #ClimateResilientCare #HospitalDesignIndia #HealthcareLeadership #EnvironmentalResponsibility #PublicHealthIndia #StrategicPlanning #GreenBuildingIndia #EcoFriendlyCare #HealingWithHeart #HumanizeHealthcare #OperationalExcellence

Union Budget 2021 : Advantage Healthcare

Dr. Wasim Ghori is the Medical Director & Consultant Diabetologist, Heart & Diabetes Clinics, Mumbai.

As an expert in the field of Healthcare, Dr. Wasim Ghori, shares the key takeaways from the Union Budget 2021 presented by Honourable Minister of Finance, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in the Parliament.  With his vast experience, he is able to see the advantages in the building & strengthening of the healthcare infrastructure and benefits to the public accessing government healthcare facilities and services.  It will also lead to massive employment generation, there contributing to the country's economic growth.

Healthcare has received a huge fillip in India's Union Budget 2021 - it has recognized the importance of health in India's growth story! 

This year the focus of the world was squarely centered on the healthcare industry. Moreover, India’s efforts in managing the Covid-19 Pandemic has been exemplary - the country’s frontline workers and scientists have been working tirelessly to save lives and develop indigenous vaccines. 

The Union Budget 2021 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was all about prioritizing key issues like creating more jobs, ramping up healthcare spending and boosting economic growth.

Here are the top key takeaways on healthcare industry: 

Government of India’s holistic approach to healthcare with the proposed Rs.2,23,846 crores budget outlay for health and well-being for 2021-22, compared to Rs.94,452 crores in the current fiscal, registering a staggering increase of 137% over the previous outlay.

• The government’s increased allocation for the healthcare sector is a welcome move as it will provide access to medical care for all in the country, fuel job creation and boost economic momentum. 
• The increased healthcare spending indicates the realization of how a healthcare crisis like the current Covid-19 pandemic can quickly spiral into an economic crisis for the nation. 
• The increase in budget outlay for health and welfare by 137% as compared to the previous year will boost the public health and pharmaceuticals sector too.

Increased spending on COVID-19 measures and vaccines. 

• The government’s commitment for the COVID-19 vaccination program will accelerate the vaccination across the population. 
• The allocation of Rs.35,000 crores for COVID-19 vaccines and more if required will bring the much-needed stability to the public healthcare setup. 
• Increased focus on spending on COVID-19 measures and vaccines makes India stand tall as a model for the world. 

Prime Minister’s Aatmanirbhar Swasthya Bharat Yojana with a total outlay of Rs.64,180 crore over a period of next 6 years will boost the healthcare ecosystem. 

• The announcement of PM’s Aatmanirbhar Swasthya Bharat Yojana is the most overwhelming addition in the aftermath of the pandemic and shows that healthcare capacity building is now a key priority for the government. 
• The centrally funded scheme is the first step to boost rural health and keep the country ready for emergency handling of pandemic situations. 
• This in addition to the National Health Mission (NHM), will support and strengthen the primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities even in the last miles of our nation. 
• The investment will aid in developing capacities of healthcare systems, develop institutions for detection and cure of new and emerging diseases. 
• It will also help in establishing critical care blocks in hospitals which is essential from our learning from the recent pandemic. 

Substantially increased allocation on Social Determinants of Healthcare with a special focus on Mission Poshan 2.0 to improve nutritional outcomes for children. 

• The announcement of an all-inclusive approach through the launch of Mission Poshan 2.0 to improve nutritional outcomes for children across 112 aspirational districts is a praiseworthy move. 
• Along with this, the increased focus on cleanliness, solid and waste water treatment, source segregation of garbage, reduction in single-use plastic, reduction in air pollution through Urban Swachh Bharat Mission  & universal drinking water supply through Urban Jal Jeevan Mission will subsequently bolster public health. 
• This increased allocation would not only improve the health outcomes, but also go a long way in the achievement of 5 out of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (Zero Hunger, Good Health & Well-being, Clean Water & Sanitation, Sustainable cities & Communities & Climate Action). 

Increasing access to Pneumococcal Vaccine.

• The pneumococcal vaccine is effective against potentially fatal pneumococcal infections like pneumonia, septicemia and meningitis and the decision to include it in the budget is a welcome decision. 
• The Pneumococcal vaccines, a Made in India product, is presently limited to just five states.
• However, it will now be rolled out across the country and will avert over 50,000 deaths annually in the country. 

Strengthening existing National Institutions and creating New Institutions. 

4 National Institutes of Biology to be established and will provide a thrust for the improvement of the healthcare sector in India, which is commendable. These include: 

• Strengthening of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and make India future ready for any further health crises
• Setting up of a National Institution for One Health 
• Bio-Safety Level III Laboratories, and 
• Regional National Institutes for Virology 

Setting up additional Rural &Urban Health and Wellness Centers along with Integrated Public Health Labs. 

• Incorporation of 17,788 rural and 11,024 urban health and wellness centers is a supportive move for better patient care and will pave way for more Public-Private Partnerships. 
• The decision to set up integrated public health labs in all districts and 3382 block public health units in 11 states along with critical care hospital blocks in 602 districts and 12 central institutions is creditable and rightly addresses the need to reach the last mile population. However, more might be required in a country where the patient-doctor ratio is abysmally poor. 
• Expansion of the Integrated Health Information Portal to all States/UTs to connect all public health labs is a step ahead towards digitalization and is a positive move. 

In Conclusion: 

Overall, the proposals made in the Budget 21-22, would make quality healthcare accessible and affordable, besides standardizing healthcare infrastructure across the country. Given the host of announcements made by the Finance Minister, it shows the commitment by the government to address not only the healthcare’s immediate and urgent needs but, fundamentally develop a program to strengthen Indian healthcare system. 

It is appreciable that the government has been very thoughtful regarding healthcare thereby focusing on curative and preventive health and well-being. The enhanced allocation along with the plan to look at healthcare holistically, including nutrition, sanitation, clean drinking water and pollution control, certainly augurs well for the country. 

Lastly, Union Budget 2021 will set the precedent for future budgets which will use this year's allocation as a baseline for future initiatives. 

I hope the government partners with private healthcare to hasten this process and strengthen health services across the country. On-ground implementation of the announcements made are now eagerly awaited.

#healthcare #health #medicine #covid19 #coronavirus #corona #vaccine #healthinfrastructure #doctor #patients #deaths #pandemic #budget2021 #budgetaryallocation #ministryoffinance #governmentofindia #wellbeing

Not All Santa's Wear Red - Some Wear White!

Season's Greetings - A Special Message from Dr. Wasim Ghori

Dr. Waim Ghori, M.D.

Dr. Wasim Ghori is the Medical Director & Consultant Diabetologist, Heart & Diabetes Clinics, Mumbai.

In this article, he takes stock of the current COVID19 situation and how healthcare workers have gone the extra-lengths to highlight the work and efforts to provide care and relief, saving lives at the risk of their own.

 

Nine months may as well be a lifetime!

The COVID-19 pandemic has left its mark on the entire world and will continue to do so well into 2021.

2020 has been a tough year. It will always be remembered as the year a virus brought the world to its knees - locked down, shut away and isolated.

But more than that, it will be remembered as the year the medical community and health workers across different countries, cities and villages stood bravely on the frontlines of a war against COVID-19, in the face of a highly infectious and unknown virus, to save lives – often at the cost of their own.

One of the groups most affected by the outbreak has been those in the hospitals taking care of people infected by the virus. There were doctors, nurses, ward boys, janitors, pharmacists, ambulance drivers, morgue attendants, bio-waste sanitation staff, medical officers, community health workers, ASHA workers, inoculators – too many to count, in hospitals, clinics, isolation facilities, clinical wards, ICUs, health centres, nursing homes across India and across the globe - their valiant effort keeping us safe, looking after infected patients, providing them not only medical aid, but also the emotional support & care they needed in isolation.

The conditions were supremely tough – stigma to begin with, long hours in suffocating hot PPE kits, dehydration, hunger, separation from their own families, the constant threat from the virus. They didn’t back down. They fought valiantly.

In a year defined by what will likely be the biggest health care crisis of our lifetimes, tens of millions of doctors, nurses and caregivers have demonstrated courage, compassion, stamina and selflessness unlike anything we have seen.

These medical bravehearts have bravely gone above and beyond in looking after those affected by the Pandemic. As the COVID-19 virus spreads across the globe and researchers mobilized to develop a safe and effective vaccine, healthcare workers adapted and innovated to serve their communities.

A mere thank you does not begin to convey the gratitude we feel for health care workers. Neither it does bring back the lives we have lost to this virus, nor does it make up for the unrelenting stress caused by isolation from friends and loved ones.

Furthermore, the pandemic has exposed many of healthcare industry’s shortcomings, but it has also highlighted many opportunities to re-imagine the future of care.

Opportunities to simplify access to data-driven insights, to improve the interoperable exchange of critical health data and to address the crisis of healthcare workers' burnout.

As we enter the New Year, I’m optimistic and confident that together we can advance the pace of improvement. We all know health care is too important to stay the same.

As we near the end of a demanding and tumultuous 2020, with the next bringing the promise of a vaccine, I want to express sincere gratitude and appreciation to all my friends, colleagues and frontline health workers around the world who have sacrificed so much in the fight against COVID-19 and helped the world back on its feet.



I take this opportunity once again to let you'll know that I greatly value our friendship and association and wish all of you and your loved ones - Happy Holidays and a Sparkling New Year 2021 - one that's built on Prosperity, Happiness and Strong Foundations.

Here's to Sweet New Beginnings....

Dr. Wasim Ghori
Consultant Diabetologist
Brand Ambassador - Education UK, British Council
Brand Ambassador - Association of Healthcare Management Professionals, AHMP, India
Director - Indian Economic Trade Organization, IETO

#virus #covid19 #coronavirus #Doctor #Pandemic #treatment #patients #healthcare #medicine #hospitals #gratitude #frontlineworkers #christmas #happynewyear2021 #messageofpeace #happiess #festival #festivities #SaulteOurSaviours

Role of Policy Makers for Prevention of Diabetes – Dr. Wasim. M. Ghori

On the occasion of World Diabetes Day being observed on 14th November, 2020, Dr. Wasim Ghori, Medical Director & Consultant Diabetologist, Heart & Diabetes Clinics, Mumbai offers some key policy recommendations for a National Policy that focuses on early detection and prevention of Diabetes.

India has a very large population which is stricken by poverty. Maternal malnutrition is rampant and the adverse effects of malnutrition in utero are evident by the appearance of metabolic disorders at a very young age in these groups. There is an urgent need for the government to address these issues and provide adequate healthcare facilities, particularly for the lower economic status of the society. An integrated national system for early detection and prevention of diabetes must be developed in order to minimize an individual’s risk of Type 2 diabetes and its complications.

Three key goals for Healthcare Policymakers:

1) Improve disease management for people with diabetes to reduce complication rates.

2) Establish effective surveillance to identify and support those at risk of Type 2 diabetes.

3) Introduce a range of interventions that help to create an environment focused on prevention.

These goals are ordered by the degree to which they are in the control of healthcare policymakers. Nevertheless, it is crucial that policymakers put a significant effort into all three goals. 

Policy Goal 1: Improve disease management for people with diabetes to reduce complication rates.

The starting point for policymakers is to ensure continual improvements in disease management for their population with diabetes. Such improvements will enhance the quality of life for those with the disease and reduce complication rates. In turn, this will ease the pressure on the health system and reduce overall spend. Improving diabetes care lies firmly in the control of health ministries. These types of interventions, rather than initiatives aimed at prevention, have the potential to produce a fast return on investment.

The basic means to achieve improvements are well-evidenced in global and national clinical guidelines. These include:

• Access for people with diabetes to medicines and medical treatment.
• Deliver comprehensive screening for people with diabetes.
• Provide comprehensive patient education and self-management programs.

In addition, there are standards for low-resource environments, research into the cost-effectiveness of interventions and policymaker guides and tool-kits. To get diabetes care right, it may be necessary to make adjustments to traditional healthcare systems. This could involve:

• Creating incentives for healthcare providers to achieve improved outcomes.
• Improving the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of self-management.
• Delivering interventions to hard-to-reach patients by exploring innovative low-cost models of delivery.

Policy Goal 2: Establish effective surveillance to identify and support those at risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Intuitively, screening for diabetes makes sense. Up to 80% of cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented through lifestyle or drug treatments, creating a clear opportunity to reduce the number of people with diabetes and the cost burden that diabetes imposes. Screening for diabetes has been proven to be cost-effective.

However, some communities are hard to reach and even where the screening is readily available and convenient, the take-up rate is often low. There are a range of tools and approaches that can support policymakers in their efforts to increase screening. The key for policymakers is to make screening more accessible and appealing for people and at a sustainable cost. Some of the innovative ways to achieve this aim can include:

• Providing incentives for people to be screened.
• Targeting healthcare providers to encourage take-up.
• Tailoring screening to cultural circumstances.
• Sharing the cost and inconvenience by screening for other diseases at the same time.
• Targeting high-risk populations.

Offering incentives to healthcare providers can succeed in increasing screening rates. Clinicians tend to be in contact with high-risk patients through the normal course of their work and are therefore in a strong position to influence them. Patients too will respond positively to incentives, if the incentives outweigh the time, effort, discomfort and perhaps money that the patients must put into being screened.

Policy Goal 3: Introduce a range of interventions to create an environment focused on prevention.

A critical contribution to slowing or even reversing the tide of Type 2 diabetes comes from achieving population-level behavior change aimed at encouraging societies to attend more conscientiously to their health, be less sedentary and have better nutrition. To influence the population and bring about the desired behavior change, policymakers need to commit to creating an environment focused on prevention – one that supports healthy choices and encourages healthy behaviors. The benefits extend beyond diabetes to other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, cancers and dementia. The core-steps and innovative action steps for policymakers may include: 

• Articulating a clear case of change – including both health and economic consequences.
• Committing to ambitious targets and timescales.
• Assigning responsibility for leading and coordinating initiatives to create an environment focused on prevention.
• Exploring the full range of preventive interventions- from information to nudges and legislation.
• Building a cross-disease coalition to support a preventive health and well-being approach.

Creating an improved prevention-focused environment is not an easy task. People have hundreds of opportunities to make less healthy choices every day at home, work, school and while travelling, shopping or engaging in leisure pursuits. Each decision is shaped by a wide range of factors viz., the information available, incentives, peer pressure and social norms.

In Conclusion:

The growing epidemic of Type 2 diabetes demands urgent and coordinated attention. Primary prevention of Type 2 diabetes is a logical strategy considering the scale and the cost of ongoing medical treatment for the diabetes epidemic and the inevitable increase in diabetes incidence together with obesity.

Given the size of the diabetes epidemic and the number of people at high risk, approaches aimed exclusively at individual behavior changes in clinical settings will likely prove inadequate for diabetes control at the population level. On the other hand, improvements in policy and the environmental factors would predispose, enable and reinforce more healthy diets and more active lifestyles for widespread and sustained behavior changes.

These will require development of infrastructure, environment and policy changes and ongoing funding of a multilevel, multidisciplinary approach and an experimental attitude at the state and local levels to allow public health researchers to evaluate the ingredients of successful innovations that constitute natural experiments in diabetes prevention.

 

 

Author : Dr. M. Wasim Ghori, Medical Director & Consultant Diabetologist, Heart & Diabetes Clinics.  He ha been featured as the most Distinguished Alumnus from India by London South Bank University (LSBU), UK during COVID19 Pandemic.  He is also the recipient of the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2018, Recipient of Literary Excellence Award 2017 at the 3rd Asiad Literature Festival and Bharat Nirman Foundation, New Delhi amongst his other accomplishments

How to Light up Diwali Celebrations During Corona Virus Pandemic

Dr. Wasim Ghori, Medical Director & Consultant Diabetologist, Heart & Diabetes Clinics, Mumbai discusses and gives simple yet useful tips to celebrate and enjoy Diwali amidst the prevailing COVID19 pandemic. 

 

 

Diwali 2020 is around the corner, but the global coronavirus pandemic has subdued the vibe and energy of the festival. Furthermore, due to negligence and air pollution, corona infections will continue to rise and attention should be paid to this situation too.

Nevertheless, here are a few tips on how to have safe Diwali celebrations this year keeping in mind the physical distancing and hygiene amidst COVID-19 outbreak.

Festivity is all about togetherness and strengthening bonds

While the pandemic can change a lot of things, we must not let it change our spirit. Therefore;

• Find innovative ways to send greetings and gifts to your loved ones. Watch movies or play virtual games with your friends and family online.
• Having home-cooked food is the most suitable option during such a pandemic situation. It adds a traditional feel of the festival to the celebrations. Refrain from outside food - this might create stomach infections and affect immunity levels.
• Do not go shopping right before/after the festival as stores are likely to be crowded. Instead, consider Do-it-Yourself decorations during this Diwali.

Don’t use sanitizer before lighting diyas /candles

• Refrain from using hand sanitizers which are alcohol based before lighting diya's, candles or any such thing.  This is because sanitizers are inflamable and can cause fire hazards.
  
• It is recommended that you wash your hands with soap and water before doing anything which involves lighting fire.

Keep sanitizer away from fire

• Sanitizer bottles have become an everyday necessity. People keep it handy, in fact, multiple sanitizers are kept at different places for easy access.
• But, since maximum sanitizers are alcohol based, they can easily catch fire. Therefore, keep your sanitizer bottles on a safe place and away from diya's or candles.

Wash hands rather than sanitize

• Instead of carrying sanitizers everywhere you can consider carrying water and paper soap.
• These are a safer option and you can easily wash your hands anywhere without causing an injury.

Maintain physical distancing

• Although Diwali is all about togetherness and strengthening bonds. This festive season, try and adjust to the new normal and avoid meeting people physically.
• It is recommended that you celebrate Diwali this year staying indoors mostly. However, if you are meeting someone, try and maintain physical distance and ensure the space is well ventilated.

Don’t forget your mask

• It is important to be responsible and take mandatory precautions. Wearing a mask is a necessity.
• Therefore, every time you step out, don’t forget to cover your nose and mouth to save yourself from getting infected.
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 Wishing you all once again

Follow these precautions and enjoy a wonderful festive season.

Dr. Wasim Ghori

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. M. Wasim Ghori, Medical Director & Consultant Diabetologist, Heart & Diabetes Clinics, Mumbai discusses give simple and yet useful tips to celebrate and enjoy the Diwali amidst the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.

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