<p>The Indian healthcare system is a complex and diverse network of medical services, facilities, and resources designed to provide healthcare services to the country's vast population.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In India's healthcare system, one of the biggest obstacles is unequal access to high-quality treatment. A large portion of the population receives insufficient healthcare as a result of the stark differences between rural and urban areas in terms of healthcare facilities, resources, and services.</p>

<p>The lack of financing for the healthcare system frequently leads to a shortage of staff, resources, and medical devices. Providing fast and efficient healthcare could become more difficult. A household's financial burden during medical crises still falls on many people due to a lack of adequate health insurance. Despite having a sizable healthcare workforce, it is nevertheless difficult to provide dependable, high-quality treatment all over India.</p>

<p>The security of patients and procedures in healthcare must be improved. The quick development of digital technology has possibilities for enhancing accessibility and healthcare delivery. Public awareness campaigns and efforts that support healthier lives can help with long-term gains in overall wellness.</p>

<p>While increasing health insurance access would ensure that more people can receive essential medical care without incurring exorbitant costs, it may also result in lower taxes for both individuals and families.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-navigating-parenthood-in-delayed-childbearing-era-626961">Navigating parenthood in delayed childbearing era</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>By enhancing patient outcomes in terms of evaluation and treatment planning, healthcare professionals might benefit from technological advancements like AI, machine learning, and data analytics. The way healthcare is supplied may fundamentally change as a result of technological advancements, remote monitoring, and health applications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), one of India's many flagship programs, aims to provide access to tertiary and secondary healthcare services and provide health insurance to the country's more than 500 million impoverished families.</p>

<p>According to NITI Aayog's research, "Health Insurance for India's Missing Middle," 30 per cent of the population lacks any kind of financial health insurance. The Ayushman Bharat plan reportedly covers 50 per cent of the population. Social insurance and private voluntary health insurance cover around 20 per cent of the population.</p>

<p>The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) aims to create a digital health ecosystem by making it easier for healthcare providers to exchange health information. Some of its features include personal health information and Health ID card services.</p>

<p>The National Health Mission (NHM) aims to improve the healthcare system, deliver essential medical treatment, and lower baby and maternal death rates. It includes a range of initiatives, such as family planning, the prevention of communicable diseases, and maternal and child health.</p>

<p>The Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP) project offers free treatment to individuals who have been financially vulnerable in an effort to increase access to dialysis for persons with kidney disease.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-the-gut-skin-connection-unravelling-the-link-between-bad-gut-health-and-psoriasis-626711">The gut-skin connection! Unravelling the link between bad gut health and psoriasis</a></strong></p>

<p>These government programs offer a framework for dealing with healthcare concerns and capitalising on opportunities for the sector's growth. Through collaboration with the private sector, encouraging innovation, and continually enhancing how these ideals are put into practice, the Indian healthcare system is undergoing positive and innovative advancements.</p>

<p>India's healthcare system is a dynamic and intricate network made up of many different medical practices, services, and facilities. It represents the nation's rich history and customs while attempting to advance to the most recent medical advancements and international medical norms. Despite its accomplishments and abilities, the system nevertheless faces formidable obstacles that limit its capacity to offer every resident a selection of high-quality, fairly cost healthcare.</p>

<p><em>(Authored by Dr Devesh Kumar Singh, chairman of Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences)</em></p>

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The Indian healthcare system is a complex and diverse network of medical services, facilities, and resources designed to provide healthcare services to the country's vast population.

The Indian healthcare system is a complex and diverse network of medical services, facilities, and resources designed to provide healthcare services to the country's vast population. In India's healthcare system, one of the biggest obstacles is unequal access to high-quality treatment. A large portion of the population receives insufficient healthcare as a result of the stark differences between rural and urban areas in terms of healthcare facilities, resources, and services. The lack of financing for the healthcare system frequently leads to a shortage of staff, resources, and medical devices. Providing fast and efficient healthcare could become more difficult. A household's financial burden during medical crises still falls on many people due to a lack of adequate health insurance. Despite having a sizable healthcare workforce, it is nevertheless difficult to provide dependable, high-quality treatment all over India. The security of patients and procedures in healthcare must be improved. The quick development of digital technology has possibilities for enhancing accessibility and healthcare delivery. Public awareness campaigns and efforts that support healthier lives can help with long-term gains in overall wellness. While increasing health insurance access would ensure that more people can receive essential medical care without incurring exorbitant costs, it may also result in lower taxes for both individuals and families. Also read: Navigating parenthood in delayed childbearing era By enhancing patient outcomes in terms of evaluation and treatment planning, healthcare professionals might benefit from technological advancements like AI, machine learning, and data analytics. The way healthcare is supplied may fundamentally change as a result of technological advancements, remote monitoring, and health applications. Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), one of India's many flagship programs, aims to provide access to tertiary and secondary healthcare services and provide health insurance to the country's more than 500 million impoverished families. According to NITI Aayog's research, "Health Insurance for India's Missing Middle," 30 per cent of the population lacks any kind of financial health insurance. The Ayushman Bharat plan reportedly covers 50 per cent of the population. Social insurance and private voluntary health insurance cover around 20 per cent of the population. The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) aims to create a digital health ecosystem by making it easier for healthcare providers to exchange health information. Some of its features include personal health information and Health ID card services. The National Health Mission (NHM) aims to improve the healthcare system, deliver essential medical treatment, and lower baby and maternal death rates. It includes a range of initiatives, such as family planning, the prevention of communicable diseases, and maternal and child health. The Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP) project offers free treatment to individuals who have been financially vulnerable in an effort to increase access to dialysis for persons with kidney disease. Also read: The gut-skin connection! Unravelling the link between bad gut health and psoriasis These government programs offer a framework for dealing with healthcare concerns and capitalising on opportunities for the sector's growth. Through collaboration with the private sector, encouraging innovation, and continually enhancing how these ideals are put into practice, the Indian healthcare system is undergoing positive and innovative advancements. India's healthcare system is a dynamic and intricate network made up of many different medical practices, services, and facilities. It represents the nation's rich history and customs while attempting to advance to the most recent medical advancements and international medical norms. Despite its accomplishments and abilities, the system nevertheless faces formidable obstacles that limit its capacity to offer every resident a selection of high-quality, fairly cost healthcare. (Authored by Dr Devesh Kumar Singh, chairman of Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The changing healthcare landscape in India: Recognising the challenges and opportunities

<p dir="ltr">India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks each week on an average in an organisation over the past six months, compared to the global average of 983, as per an <a href="https://go.checkpoint.com/2023-cyber-security-report/chapter-03.php">analysis </a>by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst.</p>

<p>The latest cyber-attack on India’s premier&nbsp;medical institution, the All India Institute of Medical Science&nbsp;(AIIMS), New Delhi,&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aiims-says-malware-attack-successfully-thwarted-by-cyber-security-systems-601396">second such attack in a row</a> has rekindled discussion over India's&nbsp;preparedness&nbsp;to deal with attacks of the given nature.&nbsp;AIIMS in a statement released on Monday (June 5) said the attempt of malware attack was successfully thwarted and the threat was neutralised in time. But, the bigger questions of India's vulnerability, vigilance and digitalisation still remain unanswered.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Why is India being targetted?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Cyber-attacks are frequently directed towards India due to its large population and expanding internet user base, resulting in a substantial attack surface, explains <strong>Dr Ananth Prabhu G, cyber law and security expert </strong>for various Indian law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p>“The country's economic progress and digital modernisation have led to increased digitisation in various sectors, which has caught the attention of cyber-criminals who seek financial benefits and access to sensitive data. Additionally, India's global prominence and intricate political and geopolitical relationships make it a prime target for attacks motivated by politics, espionage, or the disruption of critical infrastructure. Government initiatives and the collection of vast amounts of personal data have made the systems enticing targets,” he told <strong>WION</strong>.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>India’s healthcare sector a constant target? Why is health-related data so critical?</strong></h2>

<p>A nationwide initiative to <a href="https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/17739294021483341357.pdf">digitise medical data</a> was launched in September 2021, and as of now, more than 173,000 hospitals have enrolled with it. In accordance with medical records kept by hospitals on their own servers or in cloud storage, the programme allocates patient numbers that are linked to those records.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Healthcare data is a prime target for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-bigest-cyber-fraud-doctor-duped-of-rs-45-crore-548k-via-skype-calls-594502">cyber-criminals</a> due to its immense value and inherent vulnerabilities. Firstly, healthcare data contains a plethora of sensitive information that can be exploited for illicit purposes. Personally identifiable information (PII) like names, addresses, Aadhar, and insurance details can be illicitly traded on the black market for identity theft or used in fraudulent financial activities. Furthermore, medical records and health information hold significant worth as they can be leveraged for fraudulent billing, acquiring prescription drugs, or even extorting individuals with sensitive health conditions. The high value attached to healthcare data makes it an enticing objective for cyber-criminals seeking financial gain or other malicious intentions,” explains Dr Prabhu G.</p>

<p dir="ltr">He further adds that healthcare systems are “particularly appealing” to hackers because they often possess weaker security measures compared to other industries. The healthcare sector traditionally prioritises patient care and operational efficiency over robust cybersecurity, leaving vulnerabilities that cyber-criminals can exploit. Outdated software, legacy systems, and inadequate investments in cyber security infrastructure render healthcare organisations more susceptible to attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Second malware attack at AIIMS, New Delhi&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Digitalisation and the risk of cyber-crimes</strong></h2>

<p>As per industry estimates, 2022 was India's worst year to date for cyber-attacks, an issue that has only become worse with rising digitalisation.</p>

<p>“The process of digitalisation heightens the vulnerability to cyber crime as it expands the attack surface through interconnected systems, adds complexity to IT infrastructure, involves the accumulation of valuable data, increases connectivity, and witnesses the continuous evolution of cyber threats. This combination of factors grants cybercriminals numerous avenues to exploit weaknesses, pilfer sensitive information, disrupt operations, and inflict financial and reputational harm,” Dr Prabhu G said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Way forward</strong></h2>

<p>Technology usage is accelerating, which will lead to an increase in cyber-attack frequency and intensity. How can organisations curb the risk of a cyber-attack in that case?</p>

<p>“To bridge the gap and address the challenges posed by cyber-crime, it is essential to enhance collaboration between government agencies, private sector organisations, and cyber-security experts, while also prioritising robust cyber-security measures, education and training programmes, adequate resources and investment, legislation and regulation, international cooperation, continuous monitoring and incident response capabilities, and specific cyber-security awareness initiatives in sectors like healthcare. By taking these comprehensive steps, we can work towards a safer digital landscape, mitigate cyber threats, protect sensitive data, and foster a collective defence against cyber-criminals,” Dr Prabhu G explains.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The most significant issue, notwithstanding India's security measures, is the ability of the criminals to penetrate the Indian cyber-security system, regardless of whether or not these attacks result in data or financial loss. Therefore, it is imperative to implement the <a href="https://www.meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/DIA_Presentation%2009.03.2023%20Final.pdf">digital India Act</a>.</p>

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India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks each week on an average in an organisation over the past six months, compared to the global average of 983, as per an analysis by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst.

India witnessed 1,787 cyber-attacks each week on an average in an organisation over the past six months, compared to the global average of 983, as per an analysis by Check Point Software Technologies, an American-Israeli cyber threat intelligence analyst. The latest cyber-attack on India’s premier medical institution, the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), New Delhi, the second such attack in a row has rekindled discussion over India's preparedness to deal with attacks of the given nature. AIIMS in a statement released on Monday (June 5) said the attempt of malware attack was successfully thwarted and the threat was neutralised in time. But, the bigger questions of India's vulnerability, vigilance and digitalisation still remain unanswered. × Why is India being targetted? Cyber-attacks are frequently directed towards India due to its large population and expanding internet user base, resulting in a substantial attack surface, explains Dr Ananth Prabhu G, cyber law and security expert for various Indian law enforcement agencies. “The country's economic progress and digital modernisation have led to increased digitisation in various sectors, which has caught the attention of cyber-criminals who seek financial benefits and access to sensitive data. Additionally, India's global prominence and intricate political and geopolitical relationships make it a prime target for attacks motivated by politics, espionage, or the disruption of critical infrastructure. Government initiatives and the collection of vast amounts of personal data have made the systems enticing targets,” he told WION. India’s healthcare sector a constant target? Why is health-related data so critical? A nationwide initiative to digitise medical data was launched in September 2021, and as of now, more than 173,000 hospitals have enrolled with it. In accordance with medical records kept by hospitals on their own servers or in cloud storage, the programme allocates patient numbers that are linked to those records. “Healthcare data is a prime target for cyber-criminals due to its immense value and inherent vulnerabilities. Firstly, healthcare data contains a plethora of sensitive information that can be exploited for illicit purposes. Personally identifiable information (PII) like names, addresses, Aadhar, and insurance details can be illicitly traded on the black market for identity theft or used in fraudulent financial activities. Furthermore, medical records and health information hold significant worth as they can be leveraged for fraudulent billing, acquiring prescription drugs, or even extorting individuals with sensitive health conditions. The high value attached to healthcare data makes it an enticing objective for cyber-criminals seeking financial gain or other malicious intentions,” explains Dr Prabhu G. He further adds that healthcare systems are “particularly appealing” to hackers because they often possess weaker security measures compared to other industries. The healthcare sector traditionally prioritises patient care and operational efficiency over robust cybersecurity, leaving vulnerabilities that cyber-criminals can exploit. Outdated software, legacy systems, and inadequate investments in cyber security infrastructure render healthcare organisations more susceptible to attacks. Also watch | Second malware attack at AIIMS, New Delhi Digitalisation and the risk of cyber-crimes As per industry estimates, 2022 was India's worst year to date for cyber-attacks, an issue that has only become worse with rising digitalisation. “The process of digitalisation heightens the vulnerability to cyber crime as it expands the attack surface through interconnected systems, adds complexity to IT infrastructure, involves the accumulation of valuable data, increases connectivity, and witnesses the continuous evolution of cyber threats. This combination of factors grants cybercriminals numerous avenues to exploit weaknesses, pilfer sensitive information, disrupt operations, and inflict financial and reputational harm,” Dr Prabhu G said. Way forward Technology usage is accelerating, which will lead to an increase in cyber-attack frequency and intensity. How can organisations curb the risk of a cyber-attack in that case? “To bridge the gap and address the challenges posed by cyber-crime, it is essential to enhance collaboration between government agencies, private sector organisations, and cyber-security experts, while also prioritising robust cyber-security measures, education and training programmes, adequate resources and investment, legislation and regulation, international cooperation, continuous monitoring and incident response capabilities, and specific cyber-security awareness initiatives in sectors like healthcare. By taking these comprehensive steps, we can work towards a safer digital landscape, mitigate cyber threats, protect sensitive data, and foster a collective defence against cyber-criminals,” Dr Prabhu G explains. The most significant issue, notwithstanding India's security measures, is the ability of the criminals to penetrate the Indian cyber-security system, regardless of whether or not these attacks result in data or financial loss. Therefore, it is imperative to implement the digital India Act. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Data Lab | Digital India and the need to beef up cyber-security in healthcare

<p>India has an adequate number of healthcare professionals, albeit their distribution is uneven between rural and urban India and across different states, a recent study has found.</p>

<p>The research was carried out by the Indian Institute of Public Health and is based on the data collected from the registry institutions and the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), a statement released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.</p>

<p>The data from the NSSO suggest that there are an estimated 29 doctors per 10,000 people in India, while the data collected from the registry institution estimates the figure to be as high as 38. Both the figures are more than the World Health Organisation's minimum threshold of 22.8, the statement noted.</p>

<p>The study also reports an overall disparity in the density of doctors and nurses across the country, stemming from the fact that their numbers are more in states like Kerala and the Union Territories than in larger states such as Rajasthan, Jharkhand and Bihar.</p>

<p>Additionally, only 23 per cent of the health workers work in the Rural areas where nearly 71 per cent of the country's population lives, the study suggested.</p>

<p>"The study used the 2011-12 National Sample Survey data and projected Human Resource for Health (HRH) number for 2016 using census projection and worker participation rate. In addition, the survey used 2017 registry data of health professionals (Medical Council of India, India Nursing Council, Dental Council of India and other professional associations)," the release read.&nbsp;</p>


India has an adequate number of healthcare professionals, albeit their distribution is uneven between rural and urban India and across different states, a recent study has found.

India has an adequate number of healthcare professionals, albeit their distribution is uneven between rural and urban India and across different states, a recent study has found. The research was carried out by the Indian Institute of Public Health and is based on the data collected from the registry institutions and the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), a statement released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. The data from the NSSO suggest that there are an estimated 29 doctors per 10,000 people in India, while the data collected from the registry institution estimates the figure to be as high as 38. Both the figures are more than the World Health Organisation's minimum threshold of 22.8, the statement noted. The study also reports an overall disparity in the density of doctors and nurses across the country, stemming from the fact that their numbers are more in states like Kerala and the Union Territories than in larger states such as Rajasthan, Jharkhand and Bihar. Additionally, only 23 per cent of the health workers work in the Rural areas where nearly 71 per cent of the country's population lives, the study suggested. "The study used the 2011-12 National Sample Survey data and projected Human Resource for Health (HRH) number for 2016 using census projection and worker participation rate. In addition, the survey used 2017 registry data of health professionals (Medical Council of India, India Nursing Council, Dental Council of India and other professional associations)," the release read.

India has an adequate number of healthcare professionals, study finds