Healthcare in India

Today, people have understood the meaning and importance of good health and are moving from competition to co-operation, from materialistic living to spirituality and yoga. More people are taking up sports, cycling and some kind of hobby like painting and music to rejuvenate themselves after a hard day's work.

"Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

The word 'health' has been derived from Old English word hale which means wholeness and being well. Many factors determine our health. These include our environment, employment conditions, genetic inheritance, income and relationship with family and friends. Even gender! Well, the 10 oldest people in the age group of 114-116 years in the world today are women!

What Does Wellness mean

Halbert L. Dunn, a doctor by profession and author of 'High Level Wellness' first used this term 'wellness'. Mickinley Health Centre, University of Illinios has defined wellness as being a  'state of optimal well-being that is oriented toward maximizing an individual's potential. This is a life-long process of moving towards enhancing your physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental well-being.'

Health is, no doubt, an integration of mind, body and spirit. It is actually a combination of having a purpose in life and striving to achieve it, living life to the fullest, realizing our potential, being adaptable, feeling safe and secure, having the ability to bounce back from adversity, continually learning, making the best of whatever you have and finding a balance between diverse aspects of our life - physical, social, spiritual, intellectual and occupational.

What if you are unwell and are undergoing treatment for a particular ailment?

Illness suggests a few lifestyle changes. Have patience, believe in the Almighty, keep a positive attitude towards life, keep busy in work or something you enjoy doing and have medicines in time. Proper sleep is essential as is entertaining only positive thoughts. Practice 'Quantum Mind' according to which you move away from any thought that brings sorrow, negativity, anger, fear or unhappiness. Meditate and let your body heal gradually. Remember, a seed is buried in the dark soil before it opens up to the world of sunshine and greenery!

Health in Present 12th 5 Year Plan in India

The 12th 5-Year Plan focuses on health care and health issues in the country. The government has proposed to strengthen Public Sector health care system, increase expenditure on health care, encourage co-operation between Private and Public sector health care services, expand and strengthen skilled human resource, look into prescription drugs reforms along with a more co-ordinated delivery of health services.

• National Health Mission would have a universal coverage with more flexibility endowed to States. Public Health Cadre would aid in better community participation, quality control and management of health programmes. 

• Building effective Health Information Systems and reduction in Maternal Mortality Ration (MMR), Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), Total Fertility rate (TFR), reducing malnutrition among children, out-of-pocket expenditure on health and anemia among women are other goals.
  

• The government is also working towards increasing the child sex ratio from 914 to 950. It proposes to increase public expenditure on health and use general taxation as main source of healthcare financing. Also, price controls and price regulations on essential drugs would be enforced.
  

• Public Health care and medical facilities would be accessible to people living in remote areas, to differently-able marginalized groups, SC and ST populations, minorities, nomadic tribes and Particularly Vulnerable tribal Groups (PVTGs) through aanganwadis and sub-centres.
  

• The main aim is to raise total expenditure on health in the Centre and the States.
  

• PPP and Not-for-Profit PPP models would be used to expand facilities for tertiary care in the Twelfth plan.
  

Health Schemes for a Healthy India

• 6 institutes on the line of AIIMS, New Delhi and up-gradation of medical colleges is in the offing under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).

• Public facilities comprise of Rogi Kalyan Samitis (RKS), nutrition days held in villages along with Jan Sunwais (public hearings) and Common Review Missions for better accountability and response on the part of Public Health facilities.

• Under the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), institutional deliveries are being promoted by giving cash assistance to pregnant women for reducing maternal and infant mortality and provision of better ante-natal care.

• Universal Immunization Programme involves full immunization in children for Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine in endemic districts and Pentavalent vaccine (a combination vaccine against Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenza B). The fight against Polio has been almost won due to efforts of the government.

• Promotion of Home Based Neonatal Care (HBNC) through ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) has helped in helped in improved new born care practices in the community, promotion of breast feeding, use of ORS (Oral Re-hydration Solution), spacing of births and availability of essential drugs in public facilities.

• The system of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) under Twelfth Plan strategy ensures a much broader coverage of health services. Quality health services would be available for all citizens regardless of income level, gender, social status or religion without any cash payment by the beneficiaries.

• All India and State level Public Health Service Cadres would be introduced for giving more importance to public health and effective management of UHC.

• Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) which provides cashless in-patient treatment for beneficiaries through an insurance based system would cover entire population below poverty line.

• Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) assures of health care to senior citizens and retired personnel who have served in Central Government bodies. The scheme for pensioners, provides medical assistance to retired Central Government employees, their dependents and widows, freedom fighters, police personnel, retired judges of Supreme court, Parliament Secretaries and their families. It also includes ex-governors, ex-vice-Presidents of India and accredited journalists. CGHS also offers such health care through traditional methods of treatment including Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Yoga and Homeopathy.

• The National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) has been strengthened under the universal coverage of National Health Mission (NHM). Though the focus on covering rural regions and people will continue, there will be health schemes for providing health care to urban poor, especially those people who reside in slums. NHM would also give the States more flexibility to channelize health care measures in both rural and urban areas through involvement at primary, secondary and tertiary levels of health care.

Health as Covered in Indian Constitution

In a welfare state, it is the duty of the government to make policies and reforms for better healthcare of its citizens. Health is a State subject and the government comes up with innovative health schemes for betterment of health care services from Public and Private facilities. Items such as vital statistics, medical education, Food and Drugs, Medical profession, population control etc are incorporated in the Concurrent List or List-III (Seventh Schedule) given in Part XI of the Constitution of India.

The Indian Medical Association

This is a representative voluntary organization pertaining to Doctors of Modern Scientific System of Medicine and manages the interests and well being of the doctor community.

Know More About the Indian Medical Association

Address:
I.M.A. House, Indraprastha Marg
New Delhi-110 002, India
Phone:  +91-11-23370009
hsgima@gmail.com, hsg@ima-india.org
Mon - Sat 10:00 AM-17:30 PM

Health Days You Always Wanted to Know About

January
January 30: World Leprosy Eradication Day
January 15: IMA Community Services Day
January 30: Anti Leprosy Day

February
February 4: World Cancer Day
February 12: Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Day

March
March 6: Glaucoma Day
March 11: No Smoking Day
March 12: World Kidney Day
March 15: World Disabled Day/World Consumer Rights Day
March 16: Measles Immunisation Day
March 24: World TB Day

April
April 7:  World Health Day
April 17: World Haemophilia Day
April 19: World Liver Day
April 25: World Malaria Day

May
May 6: World Asthma Day
May 8: World Red Cross Day
May 9: World Thalassaemia Day
May 12: World Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Day/International Nurses day
May 19: World Hepatitis Day
May 28: International Women’s Health Day
May 31: Anti-tobacco Day/World no tobacco Day

June
June 8: World Brain Tumor Day
June 14: World Blood Donation Day

July
July 1: Doctors Day (In India)
July 11: World Population Day
July 29: ORS Day

August
August 1-8 World Breast Feeding Week
25th August-8th September: Eye Donation Fortnight

September
September 1 to 7: National Nutrition week
September 12: World Oral Health Day
September 21: World Alzheimer’s Day
September 26: World Day of the Deaf
September 28:  World Heart Day/World Rabies Day

October
October 1: International Day for the Elderly
October 2: National Anti Drug Addiction Day
October 10: World Mental Health Day
October 12 World Sight Day (Thursday of October Every Year)
October 12: World Arthritis
October 16: World Food Day
October 17: World Trauma Day
October 20: World Osteoporosis Day
October 21: World Iodine Deficiency Day
October 24: World Polio Day
October 26: World Obesity Day
October 29: World Stroke Day
October 30: World Thrift Day

November
November 2: World Pneumonia Day
November 10: World Immunization Day
November 14: Diabetes Day
November 18: World Epilepsy Day
November 19: World COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Day
November 15 to 21: New Born Care Week

December
December 1: World AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) Day
December 2: National Pollution Prevention Day
December 3: International Day of Disabled Persons
December 9: World Patient Safety Day

Medical Tourism in India

Health care system in India comprises of Public and Private sector health service providers. Government provides free and low cost health care facilities at the Primary, Secondary and Tertiary level. India has emerged as a medical tourist destination  due to well-equipped hospitals, quality healthcare infrastructure and specialized doctors. Other countries receiving medical tourists in Asia are Thailand and Singapore.

Best Hospitals in a Single Specialty in India

Specialization is the key word in medical profession today. Patients prefer doctors and hospitals that offer specialized services. Let us know about hospitals in India where specialized treatment for various ailments is available -

• HCG, Bangalore, Kalinga Rao Road, Sampangiram Nagar, Bangalore (Cancer)

• Fortis Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre, Delhi (Cardiology)

• Asian Institute of gastroenterology, Hyderabad (Gastroenterology)

• R. G. Stone Urological Research Institute, Delhi (Urology)

• Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai (Oncology)

• Sankara  Nethralaya Medical Research Foundation, Chennai (Ophthalmology)

• Dr. V Mohan’s Diabetes Specialties Centre, Chennai (Endocrinology)

• Soundarapandian Bone and Joint Hospital, Chennai (Orthopedics)

• The Kanchi Kamkoti Child Trust Hospital, Chennai (Paediatrics)

• Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata (Neurology)

• Gunasheela Surgical and Maternity Hospital, Bengaluru (Gynaecology)

• National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Science, Bengaluru (Neurology)

Top 10 Hospitals in India

AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)

AIIMS was established in 1956 and is a hospital and research institute. It is the leading hospital in India today.
Address:
Ansari Nagar, 29 Aurobindo Marg,
New Delhi

HCG, Bangalore

HCG Bangalore is a premier hospital for treatment of cancer in India. Patients from abroad also come here for cost-effective, affordable and state-of-the-art treatment and patient care.
Address:
HCG Towers, No 8 , P. Kalinga Rao Road
Sampangiram Nagar, Bangalore 560027

Apollo Hospitals

Apollo hospitals is a chain of hospitals in India. It has made available superior quality health care in the country. The chain comprises of hospitals, consultancy services, pharmacies and diagnostic clinics. 
Address:
Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals,
Sarita Vihar, Delhi- Mathura Road, New Delhi

Fortis Hospitals

Fortis has hospitals in countries outside India too bestowing health care to patients all around the globe. It is one of the leading names in the health care industry in India.

Address:
B-22, Sector 62, Noida, UP.

NIMHANS

NIMHANS or The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences has made an indelible mark in the field of research and patient care. It is famous for treatment of mental diseases in India and comprises of a lunatic asylum too.
Address:
NIMHANS, Hosur Road, Bangalore.

Christian Medical College

Popular as CMC Vellore, the hospital provides state-of-the-art healthcare at affordable cost to all sections of the society. It incorporates latest technology in patient care and has made a mark in medical research too.

Address:
Christian Medical College, Vellore.

PGIMER

Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research was established in 1962 and is a premier institute, hospital and learning and research centre.

Address:
PGIMER, Sector 12, Chandigarh.

TATA Memorial Hospital

Tata Memorial is the oldest hospital dedicated to treatment of cancer in India. Referred to as TMH, the government hospital offers research facility and operates in collaboration with the Health Ministry and Cancer Research Institute.

Address:
Dr. E. Borges Road, Parel, Mumbai.

Lilavati Hospital

The hospital is the product of charitable trust by Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta and was established in 1978. Lilavati Hospital is one of the most important hospitals of Mumbai offering the best and advanced treatment.

Address:
A-791, Bandra Reclamation,
Bandra, Mumbai.

Sankara Nethralaya

The eye hospital was established in 1976 and is a sought after hospital for treatment of eye ailments and surgical requirements.

Address:
No.18, College Road, Nungambakkam,
Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Bombay Hospital

Bombay Hospital is a multi-specialty hospital with compliance to best sanitary conditions and technological advancements in the field of medicine.

Address:
Bombay Hospital Marg,
Marine Lines, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Top 10 Heart Hospitals in India for Cardiac Surgery

''There's just one life to live
And there's no time to wait,
So let me give your heart a break,
There's just so much you can take.''

Remember the verse from song sung by Demi Lovato! Well, just to see who resides in your heart, you need to take care of your heart or get operated if need be!

These hospitals offer treatment in Paediatric cardiology, Paediatric congenital surgery, Cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, Non invasive cardiology, Interventional cardiology, Renal Angioplasty, Stenting, Open heart surgery Cardiology and Preventive and rehabilitative cardiology.

Know more about hospitals adept in cardiac surgery -

Fortis Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre (estd. 1988)
Address:
Okhla Road, New Delhi 110025
Phone: +91 11 4713 5000, +91 11 2682 5000

Narayana Hrudayalaya, Bangalore
Address:
Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences
258/A,Bommasandra Industrial Area,
Anekal Taluk. Hosur Road
Bangalore, Karnataka -560099
Helpline: 080-71222222
Emergency Dept.: Extn – 1380, 1381, 71222684/09980807980
E-mail id: info.nics@nhhospitals.org

Asian Heart Institute and Research Centre, Mumbai (estd.2002)
Address:
Asian Heart Institute, BKC Road,
Bharat Nagar, Bandra East,
Mumbai, Maharashtra 400051
Phone: 022 6698 6666

B. M. Birla Heart Research Centre, Kolkata
Address:
1/1, National Library Avenue,
Kolkata, West Bengal 700027
Phone:033 3040 3040

Kerala Institute of Medical Science, Trivandrum, Kerala
Address
P.B.No.1, Anayara P.O
Trivandrum – 695 029, Kerala, India
Phone: +91 471 3041000, +91 471 2447575
Phone: +91 471 2446535
E-mail: marketing@kimskerala.com, relations@kimskerala.com

Manipal Heart Foundation, Bangalore
Address:
98, HAL Airport Road, Bangalore – 560017
Fax: 080-2526 6757
Phone: 080-2502 4444/3344
E-mail: info@manipalhospitals.com

Medica Super Specialty Hospital, Kolkata
Address
127 Mukundapur, E.M Bypass
Kolkata:700099
Phone:+91 33 66520000
Fax:+91 33 24264967
E-mail: contactus@medicahospitals.in
Web: www.medicahospitals.in

N.M Wadia Institute of Cardiology, Pune (estd. 1966)
Address:
32, Sassoon Road, Pune-411001
Phone: +91-20-26058136, 26058141, 26058142, 26058432
Fax: +91-20-26058140
E-mail:info@nmvcardiology.org

Apollo Cardiac Center, New Delhi
Address:
Sarita Vihar
Delhi Mathura Road,
New Delhi – 110076 (India)
Phone: +91-11-26925858 / 26925801+91-11-26825563
E-mail:assistance@apollohospitalsdelhi.com

Batra Heart Centre, Delhi
Address
1, Tughlakabad Institutional Area,
Mehrauli Badarpur Road,
New Delhi-110 062 (Near Saket Metro Station)
Phone: 91-11-2995 8747, 2995 7485-87, 2995 7629
Fax: 91-11-2995 6255, 2605 7661
E-mail: info@batrahospitaldelhi.org

Top 10 Hospitals in India for Lasik Eye Surgery

Eyes are the windows to your soul. They show you the varied colours of the world. Eye care is of paramount importance at any age. From refractive surgeries to advanced procedures for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, these hospitals cater to all treatments related to eye ailments.

Let us know more about Eye Hospitals in India -

Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai
Address
Sankara Nethralaya (Main Campus)
No. 18, College Road, Nungambakkam,
Chennai – 600 006, Tamil Nadu , India.
Phone: +91-44-28271616 (12 lines)
Fax No: +91-44-28254180
E-mail id : mrf@snmail.org, information@snmail.org

L. V. Prasad Eye Institute
Address: House No. 1-88/5/A, Plot No. 274
Opposite Madhapur Police Station Kavuri Hills,
Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500081

Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
Address
Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
98, HAL Airport Road, Bangalore – 560017
Fax : 080-2526 6757
Phone : 080-2502 4444/3344
E-mail : info@manipalhospitals.com

Vasan Eye Care, Chennai
Address
Vasan Healthcare Private Limited,
No. 70, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai,
“Lancor Westminster”, IV Floor,
Mylapore, Chennai – 600 004
Tamil Nadu, India.
Phone: 044 – 43400950, 39890950
Fax: 044 – 43400998

Ahalia Foundation Eye Hospital, Palakkad, Kerala
Address:
P.O. Box : 120, Kanal Pirivu
Palakkad, Kerala, India.
Phone:  +91 4923 – 225 000 ( 12 Lines )
Fax: +91-4923-235888
E-mail: mail@afeh.org

Doctor Eye Institute, Mumbai
Address:
1st Floor, Spenta Mansion, S. V. Road,
Opposite Andheri Railway station,
Andheri (west), Mumbai 400 058
Phone: 26284103, 26287165, 26251689
E-mail: drkumardr@vsnl.com, drkumardr@gmail.com

Kenia Eye Hospital
Address
1st Floor, Rizvi Nagar,
Near Sarang Restaurant,
S.V.Road, Corner of Milan Subway,
Next to Milan Mall, Santacruz (W),
Mumbai – 400 054
Phone: 022 – 2614 4013, 09322265829
Tele Fax: 022 – 2610 3239
E-mail: keniaeye@gmail.com

Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Chennai (estd. 1994)
Address:
19, Cathedral Road,
Chennai – 600 086, India
Phone: +91 44 2811 2811, +91 44 2811 2525, +91 44 2811 6233
E-mail: dragarwal@vsnl.com

Eye-Q Super Specialty Hospitals
Address:
Eye-Q Super Specialty Eye Hospitals
4306, Near Galleria Market
DLF Phase IV, Gurgaon, Haryana.
Phone: +91 124 4272225/26/27

JJ Hospital Mumbai
Address
Jijibhoy Road, J J Marg,
Nagpada-Mumbai Central,
Mumbai – 400008
Phone: +(91)-22-23735555, 23754995, 23739400, 23750102, 23739034, 23739035, 23703696, 23739040


Shroff Eye Hospital and Lasik Centre
Address:
222, S V Road,
Near Suburbia Movie Theatre,
Bandra West,
Mumbai- 400050.
Phone: 022 – 6692 1000
E-Mail: info@shroffeye.org

Best Kidney Transplantation Hospitals in India

Ailments related to kidneys need intervention from specialized doctors. These hospitals offer services such as dialysis, Chronic Renal Failure, Hypertensive and Diabetic Kidney diseases, Obstructive kidney disease and Immunologically medicated kidney disease and kidney transplantation procedures.

Let us know about the best Kidney hospitals in India -
 
AIIMS, New Delhi
Address
Safdarjung Enclave, Aurobindo Marg,Ansari Nagar, Delhi- 110029
Phone: (011) 26588500, (011) 26589900

Fortis Hospital, Bangalore
Address
65, 1st Main Road, Seshadripuram, Bangalore- 560020, Karnataka
Phone: (080)  67947301

Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
Address
98, HAL Airport road, Bangalore – 560 017
Phone: 080-2502 4444/3344, Fax : 080 – 2526 6757
E-mail : info@manipalhospitals.com

Coimbatore Kidney Hospital, Coimbatore
Address
738-B Puliakulam Road, Coimbatore 641 045, Tamil Nadu, India
Phone: 91 422 – 2312006 or 91 422 – 2312007

MIOT Hospital, Chennai
Address:
4/112, Mount Poonamalle Road, Manapakkam,
Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600089
Phone: 044 2249 2288

Best Neurology Hospitals in India

Neurology department deals with diagnosis and treatment of diseases pertaining to nervous system of the human body. It comprises of treatment of diseases like cerebrovascular disease like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Spinal cord disorders, Infections of the brain and Speech and language disorders.

Let us learn about best hospitals working in this field in India -

National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore
Address
Hosur Road / Marigowda Road, (Lakkasandra, Wilson Garden)
Bangalore – 560029
Karnataka, India.
Phone: 91-080-26995200, 26995255
E-mail: info@nimhans.kar.nic.in

Indraprastha Apollo Hospital For Neurology
Address:
Sarita Vihar, Delhi Mathura Road,
New Delhi – 110076 (INDIA)
Tel: + 91 – 11 – 2692 5858 / 2692 5801
E-mail ID: assistance@apollohospitalsdelhi.com, delhiapollo@gmail.com

Manipal Hospital For Neurology
Address:
Manipal Hospital
98, HAL Airport Road, Bangalore – 560017
Fax: 080-2526 6757
Phone: 080-2502 4444/3344
E-mail: info@manipalhospitals.com

Institute of Neurosciences Kolkata For Neurology
Address:
Institute of Neurosciences Kolkata
185/1 A.J.C. Bose Road,
Kolkata 700 017
Helpline: +91 33 2286 9999, +91 33 4030 9999
Email: info@neurokolkata.org

Best Cancer Treatment Hospitals in India

Cancer is affecting a large population all over the globe today. However, the good news is that by proper medication, treatment, meditation, some lifestyle changes and proper diet, you can beat the dis-ease! There are many cancer survivors who have taken up this challenge and have found more meaning in their life and relationships.

All these hospitals are equipped with latest facilities for cancer treatment such as blood bank, scan test, mammography and medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology departments. Advanced equipments such as Cyber Knife, Positron Emission Tomography and Novalis radio surgery are used for treatment of cancer. Facilities like MRI, CT scan, Ultrasound scan, PET scan and nuclear medicine scan for treatment of cancer are available in these hospitals. Counseling is also offered to the patients and their families.

Here is a list of the best cancer hospitals in India ---

• HCG, Bangalore, P. Kalinga Rao Road, Sampangiram Nagar, Bangalore 560027

• Adyar Cancer Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Also known as Cancer Institute, estd. 1954)

• Regional Cancer Center, Trivandrum, Kerala (estd. 1981)

• Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi

• Mahavir Cancer Hospital, Patna
  

• MIOT (Madras Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology) Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (estd. 2008)

• Apollo Hospitals

• Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai (estd. 1952)

• P.D. Hinduja National Hospital (estd. in 1950s)

• Kidwai Institute of Oncology, Bangalore (estd. 1973)

• Max Hospital, Delhi

• Harshamitra Super Specality Cancer Centre, Trichy, Tamil Nadu (estd. 2010)

• Amala Cancer Hospital Thrissur, Kerala

Best Gastroenterology Hospitals in India

• PGIMER, Chandigarh   

• AIIMS, New Delhi
  

• Vivekananda Hospital, Hyderabad   

• Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai   

• Medinova Hospital, Hyderabad

Medical Treatment in Metro Cities in India

Metro cities attract patients from small towns where specialized treatment is not possible. Most patients prefer government hospitals but for those who are protected with medial insurance, affording a private hospital becomes feasible.

Let us know about specialized centres in Metro cities for treatment of Cancer, infertility, gastroenterology, cardiac problems and treatment of eyes.

Best Cardiology Hospitals in Metro Cities in India

• Delhi: Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, G.B. Pant Hospital, Batra Hospital, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital

• Mumbai: Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Bombay Hospital, P.D. Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Breach Candy Hospital, Lilavati Hospital

• Hyderabad: Care Hospital, Apollo Hospital, Mahaveer Hospital, Medwin Hospitals, Usha Mulapudi Cardiac Centre

• Kolkata: B.M. Birla Heart Research Institute, Ruby General Hospital, Rabindranath Tagore Int. Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Suraksha Hospital, Belle Vue Clinic and Nursing Home.

• Chennai: Madras Medical Mission, Apollo Hospital, Malar Hospital, MIOT Hospital, Vijaya Hospital

• Bangalore: Manipal Hospital, St John’s Medical College & Hospital,  Apollo Hospital, Sanjay Gandhi Hospital and Wockhardt Hospital and Heart Institute.

Best Gastroenterology Hospitals in Metro Cities in India

• Delhi: All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Pushpawati Singhania Research Institute, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, G.B. Pant Hospital, Apollo Hospital

• Mumbai:  Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Lilavati Hospital, P.D. Hinduja Nat’l Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Breach Candy Hospital, Bombay Hospital

• Kolkata: Kothari Medical Centre, S.S.K.M. Hospital, Calcutta Medical Research Institute, AMRI-Apollo, Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratisthan

• Chennai: Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Inst., Apollo Hospital, Sri Ranga Nursing Home, Rigid Hospital, Billroth Hospital

• Bangalore: St John’s Medical College & Hospital, Apollo Hospital, Manipal Hospital, Wockhardt Hospital, Lakeside Medical Centre

• Hyderabad: Vivekananda Hospital, Medinova Hospital, Owesi Medical and Research Centre, Global Hospital, Care Hospital

Best Hospitals for Infertility in Metro Cities in India

• Delhi: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi IVF Centre, Mother and Child Hospital,  Apollo Hospital, Dr Butani’s Clinic.

• Mumbai:   Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Inkus IVF Centre, Malpani Infertility Clinic, Bombay Hospital,  Lilavati Hospital

• Kolkata: Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Ghosh Dastidar Institute of Fertility Research, AMRI-Apollo Kothari Medical Centre, R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital

• Chennai: Apollo Hospital, GG Hospital, Joseph Nursing Home, Madras Medical Mission, Dr E.V. Kalyani Medical Centre

• Bangalore: Gunasheela Institute of Research in Reproduction, Bangalore Hospital, St John’s Medical College & Hospital, St Philomena’s Hospital, Mallya-Apollo Hospital

• Hyderabad: Anu Test-tube Baby Centre, Dr Mamta Deendayal’s Clinic, Sridevi Test-tube Baby Diagnostic & Research Centre, Hyderabad Fertility Research CentreKiran Infertility Clinic

Best Hospitals for Mental Health in Metro Cities in India

• Delhi: Mental Hospital, Shahdara, VIMHANS, Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, G.B. Pant Hospital

• Mumbai: King Edward Memorial Hospital, B.Y.L. Nair Hospital, Sion Hospital,   Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Bombay Hospital

• Kolkata:  Lumbini Park Mental Hospital and Clinic, S.S.K.M. Hospital Calcutta Pavlov Hospital, AMRI-Apollo, Calcutta Medical Centre

• Chennai: Institute of Mental Health, Dr George Nursing Home, Apollo Hospital, Dhariam Mental Health Nursing Home, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute

• Bangalore: National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, St John’s Medical College and Hospital, Manipal Hospital,  St Martha’s Hospital. Sanjay Gandhi Hospital

• Hyderabad: Institute of Mental Health, Woodlands Asha, Citi Nursing Home, Deccan College of Medical Sciences, Indira Health Home

Best Hospitals for Eye Treatment in Metro Cities in India

• Delhi: AIIMS (RP Centre), Sir Ganga Ram Hospital,Guru Nanak Eye Centre, Dr Shroff Charity Eye Hospital, Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre

• Mumbai: Aditya Jyoti Eye Hospital, Bombay Hospital, P.D. Hinduja Nat’l Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Laxmi Eye Hospital,  Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre

• Kolkata: Peerless Hospital and B.K. Roy Research Centre, Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, S.S.K.M. Hospital, Anandalok Hospital, Kothari Medical Centre

• Chennai: Sankara Nethralaya, Dr Aggarwal Hospital, Vijaya Hospital, Government Ophthalmic Centre, Dr Arul Mozhi Varman Clinic

• Bangalore: Minto Hospital, St John’s Medical College and Hospital, Chinmaya Mission Hospital, Narayana Nethralaya, Netra Jyoti Eye Hospital of Lions Club

• Hyderabad: L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital, Sadhu Ram Eye Hospital, Osmania General Hospital, Apollo Hospital

Best Hospitals for Treatment of Cancer in Indian Metros

• Delhi: All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Dharamshila Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Safdarjung Hospital

• Mumbai: Tata Memorial Hospital, P.D. Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Bombay Hospital,  Nanavati Hospital, Breach Candy Hospital

• Kolkata: Chittaranjan National Cancer Research Centre, S.S.K.M. Hospital, Calcutta Medical College and Hospital, Cancer Centre & Welfare Home, Thakurpukur, Kothari Medical Centre

• Chennai: Cancer Institute (Adyar), Apollo Hospital, Dr Rai’s Memorial Medical Centre,  Devaki Hospital, Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Inst.

• Bangalore: HCG (Sampangiram Nagar, Bangalore), Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, St John’s Medical College and Hospital, Bangalore Institute of Oncology, Manipal Hospital, Mahaveer Hospital

• Hyderabad: Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, MNJ Institute of Oncology and Regional Cancer Centre, Bibi Cancer Hospital, Indo-American Cancer Institute and Research Hospital, Apollo Hospital

Best Multi Specialty Hospitals in India

• AIIMS, New Delhi
• PGIMER, Chandigarh
• CMC, Vellore
• Megapolis Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai
• Lilavati hospital and Research centre, Mumbai
  
• Metro Sterling Hospital, Ahmedabad
• G.Kuppuswami Naidu Memorial Hospital,Coimbatore
  

About Medico-Legal Cases in India

Medico legal cases (MLC) are an important part of medical practice and Medical Officers (MO) frequently encounter such cases. It is very important that such cases are handled properly and accurate documentation of cases is done in order to avoid legal complications. A case can be labelled as MLC only after being based on sound professional judgement after clinical examination and also recording detailed medical history of the patient.

Medico-legal cases include cases pertaining to accidents like Road Traffic Accidents (RTA), industrial accidents, poisoning, alcohol intoxication, burns and scalds, chemical injuries, criminal abortions, drug overdose, unnatural deaths etc. 

Health Acts in India

Article-21 envisages the Right to Life to every Indian citizen. Health, sanitary conditions, security and freedom all come under this provision. In a Welfare state, the government in India makes regulations to guarantee good health care of marginal sections of people.

Various Acts related to Health are furnished below -

• The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act and Rules
• The Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act and Rules
• Acts in Disability
• Insecticides Act and Rules
• Maternity Benefit Act and Rules
• Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940
• The Pharmacy Act, 1948
• Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and Rules
• The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954
• The Transplantation of Human Organs Act and Rules
• Environmental Acts and Rules
• Consumer Protection Act and Medical Profession
• Mental Health Act, 1987
• Food Safety and Standards Regulations
• Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998
• The Protection of Women From Domestic Violence Act, 2005
• The Marriage Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2010
• The Prohibition Of Sexual Harassment Of Women At Workplace Bill, 2010
• Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011
• Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011
  

Bio-Medical Waste Management

Health and health-care can be achieved only if bio-medical waste is taken care of in a regulated way. The Hippocratic Oath reiterates 'Do not harm' and spread of infection through such waste material can be controlled only by proper management. Biomedical Waste (management and Handling) Rules 1998, Amendment, 2003 lays down rules for the same.

Bio-medical waste means the waste generated during diagnosis, treatment or immunization of patients or in research activities etc.

Waste generated from hospitals comprises of non-hazardous waste (85%), infectious waste (10%) and non-infectious but hazardous waste. Persons at risk are doctors, patients, nurses and visitors along with other workers in the hospital.

Some treatment options are mentioned below -

• Human tissues, body parts (Anatomical waste): Incineration/deep burial.
• Lab cultures, specimens (Microbiology and bio-technology waste): Autoclave/ Microwaving/incineration
• Out dated medicines: Incineration/destruction/disposal in secured landfills.
• Soiled wastes (with body fluids and blood): Incineration/autoclave/microwaving
• Needles, Syringes, blades, glass (Waste Sharps): Disinfection/autoclaving/microwaving/mutilation/shredding.
  

Euthanasia in India

Euthanasia is also known as mercy killing. In India, passive euthanasia is legal. This was allowed by Supreme Court of India following a judgement in 2011 in the Aruna Shanbaug case. She was in a vegetative state for past 37 years in King Edward Memorial hospital. According to the verdict, life support to patients in a permanent vegetative state could be withdrawn.

Passive euthanasia involves withdrawal of treatment or nutrition/water which would enable the patient to live. The decision has to be taken in the best interest of the patient and even if such a decision is taken by relatives, doctor or next friend, it has to be approved from the High Court concerned. However, active euthanasia by means of lethal injection is illegal.

It must be noted here that Section 309 IPC, which penalizes those individuals who survive suicide attempts to has been scrapped in 2015.

AYUSH

AYUSH refers to Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

Know More About AYUSH

The department of Indian System of Medicine and  Homeopathy  (ISM&H) originated in 1995 and was later re-named as AYUSH in 2003. This was done to give focused attention to development, awareness generation and research in the field of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani , Siddha and Homoeopathy. The department is an independent Ministry since 2014.

Address:
Ministry of AYUSH
Ayush Bhawan, B Block,
GPO Complex, INA, New Delhi - 110 023

Various Allopathy/modern medical practitioners are planning to move court against Government's plan to allow AYUSH practitioners to adopt modern medicine. They are of the opinion that AYUSH medical community must confine themselves only to traditional systems and not incorporate modern medical technology for improving their treatment methods.

Also, the changes made to the draft bill for Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Amendment by the Union Government may allow the AYUSH doctors to conduct non-invasive abortions. Indian Medical Association proposes to take immediate legal steps against this decision of the government and file anti-quackery writ petitions (WPs) in various High Courts.

Alternative Treatments in India

Homeopath, Ayurvedic, Unani, Naturopathy, yoga etc. are some alternative treatments resorted to in India for prevention and cure of diseases. It is believed that since the medicines in this form of treatment involves naturally produced pills from plants, they have negligible side effects.

Ayurveda

Ayurveda gives utmost importance to diet as therapy as human body is a product of food. You are what you eat! According to Ayurveda, your mental and spiritual development is influenced by the type of food intake. A lack of nutrition and proper dietary habits leads to sickness.

Yoga

Yoga aids in achieving self-realization. It unites your body and spirit, making you a more disciplined and healthy individual. Yoga does not refer to physical poses and exercises only. It means mind control and contentment too.

Naturopathy

It is a drug less system of healing and an old science. According to naturopathy, our surrounding environment has impact on our health right from the formative years. Food, water and air must be pollution free for enjoying good health. Other important factors include sleep, fresh food and proper ventilation. 

Siddha

The principles of this form of treatment are quite similar to those of Ayurveda. It believes that human body is composed of five basic elements --- Earth, water, fire, air and sky. Right food is the basic ingredient for good health. It deals with concept of salvation in life too.

Homeopathy

You must have tasted the sweet pills of Homeopathy at sometime of your life! No doubt, it is the second most popular system of medicine in India. Treatment lies in a holistic approach towards the patient through promotion of inner balance at the mental, emotional and physical level.

SOWA-RIGPA

It is commonly referred to as Amchi system of medicine. It is practised in Tibet, Bhutan, China, Nepal and Himalayan regions of India. The treatment is quite similar to Ayurveda. It is a science of healing the mind and body.

Why is Medical Insurance Useful for You

Health insurance protects you from financial burden that come with health problems such as surgery, admission in hospital, various tests and bed charges etc. Medical treatment has become expensive and it is a good decision to protect yourself and your family by opting for a medical insurance. Health insurance protects you from high medical costs, helps you to get timely medical care and aid you to avail of preventive and screening services. So, even if you have good health, take a medical insurance.

Prevention is Better than Cure

Nowadays, people are finding diverse methods of keeping themselves happy and active as they have realized that it is better to be health and kicking than lying on the hospital bed and waiting for the treatment to get over!

Well, there are many ways you can keep fit and healthy. Some of these are taking up sports activities, morning walks, exercises, painting, music, yoga, dancing or just upgrading yourself by learning a new skill! The old maxim still stands true 'Health is wealth'. So true, isn't it? In short, good health is about having proper food, peaceful thoughts and moderate exercise.