The recent Healthcare Changemakers Conclave-2023 brought together key stakeholders in India’s healthcare sector to celebrate the remarkable contributions made by medical professionals and organizations. The event introduced the groundbreaking Doctor Couple Changemakers Awards, recognizing the unwavering commitment and sacrifices of doctor couples in improving India’s healthcare system.
Chief Guest Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, MoS, External Affairs and Culture of India, lauded the conclave for uniting healthcare changemakers and acknowledging their invaluable efforts during the COVID-19 crisis. She also underscored the government’s determination to enhance healthcare accessibility through initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, the expansion of AIIMS, and the establishment of viral testing labs across the country.
Guest of Honour Shri C K Mishra, former Secretary for Health Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, emphasized the necessity of ongoing endeavors to improve healthcare accessibility, affordability, quality, and equity. He asserted that recognizing and celebrating the work of changemakers is crucial for inspiring others to make a positive impact on the healthcare sector.
Dr. Upasana Arora, MD of Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals, called for a change in attitudes and behaviors to make India’s healthcare system more scalable, affordable, accessible, and eco-friendly. She cited the construction of new green hospitals utilizing solar energy as a prime example of sustainable development in practice.
Commander Navneet Bali, Regional Director – North of Narayana Health, highlighted the issue of healthcare accessibility in India. He pointed out that despite the existence of Ayushman Bharat, around 80 crore Indians still lack health coverage, resulting in high out-of-pocket expenses for medical care. Overburdened government hospitals face difficulties in providing prompt care, with daily OPD patients numbering between 18-25 thousand. Bali argued that technological intervention could help tackle these challenges and transform India’s healthcare landscape.
