Kashmir’s healthcare concerns: Exaggeration or real collapse?

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Ziraat Times
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Dr Fiaz Maqbool Fazili

The healthcare system in Kashmir has recently been under intense scrutiny, often making headlines for the wrong reasons. Whether these issues are a result of minor shortcomings being exaggerated or indicative of a deeply flawed system in shambles is a matter of significant debate. This review aims to critically analyze the state of medical practice in Kashmir, identify the root causes of its challenges, and propose actionable solutions to overhaul the system for the betterment of public health.

The Current State of Medical Practice in Kashmir Media Sensationalism or Systemic Breakdown? Kashmir, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has been grappling with a healthcare system that is struggling to meet the needs of its population. The region has faced decades of political instability, which has inevitably impacted its infrastructure, including healthcare. While there are dedicated healthcare professionals working tirelessly to provide care, the system as a whole is plagued by inefficiencies, resource shortages, and systemic failures. Recent adverse news reports have highlighted issues such as inadequate medical facilities, shortage of essential drugs, long waiting times, and allegations of negligence. These reports have sparked public outrage and raised questions about the effectiveness of the healthcare system. However, it is essential to distinguish between isolated incidents of malpractice and systemic failures that require urgent attention.

Genuine Shortcomings OR Exaggerated Gaps ?

In the age of social media and instant news, minor issues can often be blown out of proportion. There is no denying that Kashmir’s healthcare system has its share of problems, but it is equally important to recognize the efforts of healthcare workers who continue to serve under challenging conditions. Some of the negative publicity may stem from isolated incidents that do not reflect the overall state of medical practice in the region.

For instance, a single case of alleged negligence can dominate headlines, creating a perception that the entire system is failing. While such incidents are unacceptable and must be addressed, they should not overshadow the broader issues that require systemic reforms. It is crucial to strike a balance between holding the system accountable and acknowledging the hard work of healthcare professionals.

Systemic Pitfalls: A Deeper Look

 While some shortcomings may be exaggerated, there is no denying that Kashmir’s healthcare system faces significant challenges. These issues are deeply rooted and require comprehensive reforms. Some of the key systemic problems include: Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many healthcare facilities in Kashmir lack the necessary infrastructure to provide quality care. Hospitals are often overcrowded, with insufficient beds, outdated equipment, and inadequate sanitation facilities. This not only compromises patient care but also puts additional strain on healthcare workers.Shortage of Medical Professionals: Kashmir faces a severe shortage of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. This shortage is exacerbated by the migration of skilled professionals to other regions or countries in search of better opportunities. The existing workforce is overburdened, leading to burnout and decreased efficiency.Lack of Essential Drugs and Supplies: Patients often face difficulties in accessing essential drugs and medical supplies. This is partly due to supply chain disruptions caused by the region’s geopolitical situation and inadequate funding for healthcare.Inefficient Accountability : Bureaucratic inefficiencies , no audit and lack of accountability in the way care is delivered through healthcare facilities contribute to mismanagement and professional corruption. This results in delayed decision-making, misallocation of resources, and poor service delivery.Limited Access to Specialized Care: Patients in remote areas of Kashmir often have limited access to specialized medical care. The lack of well-equipped tertiary care centers forces patients to travel long distances, incurring additional costs and delays in treatment.Mental Health Crisis: The prolonged conflict in Kashmir has taken a toll on the mental health of its population. However, mental health services are severely underfunded and understaffed, leaving many without access to the care they need.

Reforming a System in Distress on Ventilator -The Need for Systemic Overhaul

The challenges facing Kashmir’s healthcare system are complex and multifaceted. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive overhaul of the system, with a focus on improving infrastructure, increasing funding, enhancing accountability, and prioritizing the well-being of healthcare workers. Below are some key recommendations for fixing the system:Investment in Infrastructure: The government must prioritize investment in healthcare infrastructure, including the construction of new hospitals, upgrading existing facilities, and ensuring the availability of modern medical equipment. Special attention should be given to rural areas to bridge the urban-rural divide in healthcare access.

Recruitment and Retention of Healthcare Professionals:

To address the shortage of medical professionals, the government should implement policies to attract and retain skilled healthcare workers. This could include offering competitive salaries, providing opportunities for professional development, and improving working conditions.

Strengthening Supply Chains:

Efforts must be made to ensure a steady supply of essential drugs and medical supplies. This could involve establishing local manufacturing units for pharmaceuticals and improving logistics to prevent stockouts.

Enhancing Accountability:

Transparency and accountability must be prioritized in the administration of healthcare facilities. Implementing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms is a very important and single most KPI that can help identify and address inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement.

Expanding Access to Specialized Care:

The establishment of well-equipped tertiary care centers in different parts of Kashmir can reduce the burden on existing facilities and improve access to specialized care. Telemedicine, well-coordinated referral system Electronic  grid , ensures the right patient and right staff at the right place can also be leveraged to provide remote consultations and bridge the gap in healthcare access. 

Focus on Mental Health:

Given the high prevalence of mental health issues in Kashmir, there is an urgent need to invest in mental health services. This includes training healthcare professionals in mental health care, establishing dedicated mental health facilities, and raising awareness to reduce stigma.

Community Engagement: Engaging the community in healthcare decision-making can help build trust and ensure that services are tailored to meet the needs of the population. Community health workers can play a crucial role in bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients. Let the Truth be told what the State can provide, election manifestos of  high promises raise lots of hopes and when a patient at POC point of contact doesn’t find structure or processes in place  dissatisfaction ensues .

Public-Private Partnerships:

Collaborating with private sector organizations can bring in additional resources and expertise to strengthen the healthcare system. Public-private partnerships can be particularly effective in areas such as infrastructure development, technology adoption, and service delivery.

The state of medical practice in Kashmir is a cause for concern, but it is not beyond repair. A critical review and the need for systemic overhaul even when some of the negative publicity may stem from isolated incidents, there is no denying that the system is in dire need of systemic reforms. Addressing the root causes of the challenges requires a concerted effort from the government, healthcare professionals, and the community. By investing in infrastructure, improving accountability, and prioritizing the well-being of both patients and healthcare workers, Kashmir can build a healthcare system that is resilient, efficient, and capable of meeting the needs of its population. The time for action is now, and the stakes could not be higher.

(The author is a surgeon at Mubarak Hospital, Srinagar, clinical auditor, certified and qualified expert on health care standards. He can be reached at [email protected])

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