Preventive healthcare future model, crucial for national economy, security: Rajnath
Singh said preventive healthcare also made economic sense as treating advanced diseases could cost lakhs of rupees, while annual health check-ups, lifestyle counselling, early screening and basic medication could cost hundreds or a few thousand rupees.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the inauguration of a Mahajan Imaging and Labs facility in Noida, emphasizing preventive healthcare as the future model for India's healthcare system. Rising treatment costs, a growing ageing population, and changing disease patterns, particularly non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, necessitate shifting focus towards early detection and prevention, Singh argued.
He stressed the economic benefits of preventive healthcare, noting that annual health check-ups and early screenings can cost far less than treating advanced diseases. As India's demographic shifts towards an older population by 2050, the burden on hospitals could increase without adopting preventive measures, he warned. Singh called for all stakeholders to embrace preventive healthcare as a new normal, highlighting advancements in diagnostic medicine driven by artificial intelligence, advanced imaging, and genomics.
However, he cautioned against overreliance on technology, stressing the need to protect patient data, maintain transparency in AI usage, and prioritize patient safety. The minister highlighted India's potential to lead in healthcare innovation, citing its skilled workforce and expanding digital ecosystem. The government's Ayushman Bharat scheme, providing affordable modern healthcare to 35 crore people, was a significant step, Singh said, with over five crore beneficiaries receiving quality treatment and 80 lakh availing benefits in Uttar Pradesh.
The state had seen a surge in medical colleges and seats, contributing to improved healthcare access. Singh concluded by emphasizing that a healthy society builds a strong nation and recited the Sanskrit prayer, "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah."
Written by urgent.news from ETHealthworld's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
