Introduction
Preventive healthcare refers to measures taken to prevent the onset of diseases rather than treating them after they occur. It includes immunisation, health screenings, sanitation, lifestyle modifications, and surveillance systems. In India, preventive healthcare is gradually gaining prominence, especially post-COVID-19. However, its integration into the healthcare system remains partial and under-prioritised.
Current Status
1. India has made commendable progress in areas such as universal immunisation, maternal-child healthcare, sanitation (Swachh Bharat Abhiyan), and disease surveillance.
- The launch of the Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) aims to provide comprehensive primary care, including prevention and promotion. Over 1.6 lakh HWCs are operational, with a strong focus on NCD screening and health education.
3. Additionally, India’s Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) enable real-time disease tracking, vital for early detection and response to outbreaks.
Key Challenges
- Limited awareness and health-seeking behaviour: Preventive services are underutilised due to low awareness and health literacy, especially in rural and tribal areas.
2. Underfunding: Public health expenditure remains low at around 2.1% of GDP, limiting investments in community health and prevention.
3. Urban-rural disparity: Preventive services are better in urban areas, while rural populations face inadequate access.
4. Fragmented data systems: Though IHIP is a step forward, lack of private sector data integration hampers full-spectrum disease surveillance.
5. Burden of NCDs: Lifestyle diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer are rising, yet preventive screening and behavioural interventions are insufficient.
6. Human resource gaps: A shortage of trained public health professionals undermines implementation.
Way Forward / Policy Measures
- Increase public health investment to at least 3% of GDP, focusing on preventive infrastructure and staffing.
2. Strengthen integration of private sector data into national surveillance platforms like IHIP to enhance outbreak preparedness.
3. Expand digital health tools (like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission) for preventive health alerts and personalised health guidance.
4. Incentivise preventive care through insurance reimbursements for regular screenings and vaccinations.
5. Promote health education campaigns using local languages, community health workers, and mass media.
6. Address NCDs systematically by expanding screening at HWCs, ensuring follow-up, and integrating behavioural counselling.
Conclusion
India’s preventive healthcare is evolving, but it requires robust investment, integration, and awareness-building. A shift from reactive to preventive health will be crucial to achieving Universal Health Coverage and fulfilling SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).
