Joint Managing Director, Indus Health Plus
Preventive healthcare means the measures taken to prevent diseases rather than treating them. One is advised to go for routine check-up even if the person is healthy as lifestyle diseases are asymptomatic in nature. Preventive health care is an important determinant of health since prevention means avoiding or slowing the course of a disease which is essential for a good quality of life. Over the years this segment has become one of the strongest pillars in healthcare industry. Early detection of diseases through preventive tests not only saves life but also protects individual and his family from going through immense physical, emotional and financial distress.
In India, the preventive healthcare segment is on rising curve. India’s total preventive healthcare market now estimates over $800 million. The market offers a tremendous opportunity to bring in innovative technology solutions. Healthcare players are moving into direction of higher user and patient empowerment and better patient engagement models. People consciousness about their health and rising disposable income has given a boost to preventive healthcare at urban and semi urban market.
With the rising healthcare expenditure in corporate sector there is an increasing interest in workplace for raising awareness about various diseases and a need to practice prevention in healthcare. The ASSOCHAM report on Preventive Healthcare and its impact on Corporate Sector states that “One rupee spent on prevention saves Rs. 133 in absenteeism costs and Rs. 6.62 in healthcare costs”. Preventive Healthcare and wellness programs can change employees’ behaviour, improve their biometric risk profile and work productivity.
The main focus area for government in healthcare sector is on “Prevention”. Initiatives like ‘Health for All’ and ‘The National Health Assurance Mission’ is a sheer reflection of need to re-emphasize on improving preventive healthcare facilities. In 2012, a complete tax waiver was given on payment made on account of preventive health check-up up to Rs. 5000 within the overall deduction of Rs. 15,000 available with respect to premium paid towards a health insurance policy for self, spouse and children.
To further strengthen the preventive healthcare segment in India following points can be considered:
a. Integrated preventive healthcare system which will create awareness and allow detection and diagnosis of diseases
b. The government should implement a healthcare system towards prevention, screening, early intervention and new treatment modalities with the aim to reduce the burden of chronic disease
c. Access to quality health services on an affordable and equitable basis. optimal utilization of public resources and increasing public spending on health care
d. Corporate should also be incentivized for their interest in preventive measures for employees
e. Government should make routine health check - up mandatory from the age of 25 years through healthcare programmes
f. Health education dealing with health promotion, prevention of diseases through awareness, and information of availability of treatment must also be considered as essential health care
g. Having an adequate health workforce in terms of numbers, skill mix and infrastructure
h. Need to create personal health records and encourage screening of diseases amongst the population
i. Strengthening district hospitals for diagnosis and management of NCDs