What should India improve in healthcare?

General
, , , ,
1

An ideal healthcare system isn’t just about hospitals and doctors.

It balances:

-Prevention

-Accessibility

-Affordability

-Quality

-Continuity of care

In many ways, India does some things better than most countries.

India excels in:

-Large-scale public health programs (vaccination, TB, maternal care)

-Cost-effective treatments and generic medicines

-A strong pharmaceutical manufacturing base

-Rapid adoption of digital health tools

These strengths allow healthcare to reach millions at a fraction of global costs.

But some challenges still remain.

Areas that need improvement:

-Unequal access between urban and rural regions

-Overburdened public hospitals

-Preventive care still taking a backseat to treatment

-Limited doctor–patient time

The future of Indian healthcare may not depend on copying Western systems, but on strengthening what already works while fixing gaps in access and prevention.

Healthcare isn’t built in hospitals alone.

It’s built through systems that reach people before they get sick.

What do you think should and can be improved in the current healthcare system of India?

MBH/PS

3 Likes
2

Honestly, as a Diabetes fellow, it’s heartbreaking to see patients coming in with advanced complications that could have been prevented ten years ago. In India, we have world-class doctors, but our ‘system’ is designed to treat the fire, not prevent the spark. I’d love to see a shift where we stop glorifying ‘emergency saves’ and start valuing early biochemical screening and patient education. If we can make basic metabolic health checks as accessible as a local pharmacy, we’d save so many families from the emotional and financial drain of chronic disease.

1 Like
3

True. Prevention and proper medication use can make a huge difference, and clinical pharmacists can help bridge that gap in patient care.

1 Like
4

India should strengthen primary and preventive care, especially in rural areas, so people are supported before diseases become severe. At the same time, improving public hospital infrastructure and workforce distribution can reduce overload and ensure quality, affordable care for everyone.

1 Like