Evaluation of national policy on Indian medicine: Stakeholders' view
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Evaluation of implementation status of national policy on Indian systems of medicine and homeopathy 2002: Stakeholders� perspective
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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Balpreet Singh, Manoj Kumar, Amarjeet Singh
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Evaluation of implementation status of national policy on Indian systems of medicine and homeopathy 2002: Stakeholders� perspective
Year: 2013
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The National Policy on Indian systems of medicine and homeopathy (ISM and H) was established in 2002 with the aim of promoting the development of traditional medical practices like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Homoeopathy in India. Despite its significance, the policy's implementation has faced numerous challenges. A study was conducted to assess the perspectives of public health experts regarding the current status and effectiveness of the ISM and H Policy, aiming to identify factors contributing to its inadequate execution.
Major Bottlenecks in Implementation
One of the key findings of the study highlights the lack of governmental support and funding as primary obstacles to successful policy implementation. Public health experts rated the overall implementation status as �poor,� citing insufficient education quality and administrative inefficiency as further complications. Notably, only 2-4% of the total health budget has been allocated to AYUSH, significantly less than the recommended 10%. This shortfall has hampered research and infrastructure development, with many AYUSH institutions operating under inadequate conditions. Other challenges include red tape, corruption, and poor monitoring systems, leading to a wide disparity in the support and resources provided to AYUSH compared to allopathic medicine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study reveals that the implementation status of the ISM and H Policy is perceived as unsatisfactory by a majority of public health experts, underscoring the urgent need for improved governmental backing, better educational standards, and effective administrative practices. While the policy aims to foster the growth and integration of traditional medicine within the public health system, the lack of resources and bureaucratic support severely limits its potential. Addressing these issues is essential for realizing the policy’s objectives and enhancing the role of AYUSH in India's healthcare landscape.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the National Policy on Indian Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy?
The National Policy on Indian Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy was formulated in 2002 to promote and develop traditional healing systems in India, including Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Homeopathy.
What was the response rate of the public health experts survey?
The survey achieved a response rate of 61%, with the majority of experts rating the implementation status of the ISM and H Policy as poor.
What are the primary challenges to implementing the ISM and H Policy?
Major challenges identified included lack of funds, government support, quality education, and issues such as bureaucracy, corruption, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation of AYUSH initiatives.
What areas require improvement in the AYUSH education system?
Improvements are needed in the quality and standardization of AYUSH education, including regulatory oversight, practical training, and alignment of curricula with traditional medical practices and modern scientific standards.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Evaluation of national policy on Indian medicine: Stakeholders' view�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush refers to the Indian systems of medicine including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. These systems are officially recognized in India and are aimed at integrating traditional practices into healthcare for promoting holistic health and well-being. The implementation of the AYUSH policy has been found to be lacking, particularly in support and education.
2) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses various practices aimed at promoting health and treating illnesses. In the context of the study, it relates to AYUSH systems which advocate for alternative approaches to health care, contrasting with conventional Western medicine. The integration of these systems remains under scrutiny, with experts noting significant challenges in their implementation.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is one of the prominent systems under AYUSH focused on holistic health through natural remedies and lifestyle changes. Despite its historical significance, the implementation of policies to support Ayurveda has been marked as poor, indicating a need for better educational frameworks and quality assurance in practice.
4) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard of services, education, and products in healthcare systems. The evaluation highlighted the quality of education, drug availability, and healthcare services under AYUSH as inadequate, which raises concerns about the effectiveness and trustworthiness of the treatments offered.
5) Yoga:
Yoga, as a part of the AYUSH system, emphasizes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The practice is recognized for its health benefits but faces challenges in integration within larger healthcare policies, reflecting a gap in understanding and implementation compared to other healthcare systems.
6) Science (Scientific):
Scientific approaches denote methods based on empirical evidence and systematic research. The potential of AYUSH systems, including their practices, is undermined if not backed by scientific study and validation, highlighting the need for enhanced research frameworks.
7) Knowledge:
Knowledge pertains to the understanding and skills acquired through education and experience in AYUSH systems. The article discusses the importance of disseminating knowledge about AYUSH therapies, yet critiques the quality of education and training provided to practitioners.
8) Siddha:
Siddha is another system within the AYUSH framework, focusing on ancient medical practices and herbal remedies. Its inclusion in the broader discourse around traditional medicine underscores the need for equitable support and recognition similar to that given to other systems like Ayurveda.
9) Drug:
Drug refers to any substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of diseases. The study emphasizes the necessity for quality control and standardization of drugs within AYUSH systems to ensure efficacy and safety in treatment protocols.
10) Discussion:
Discussion involves dialogue and evaluation among stakeholders regarding the implementation and effectiveness of healthcare policies. Expert perspectives shared in the study reflect a critical examination of the current state of AYUSH and facilitate collective insights for improvement.
11) Post:
Post refers to the aftermath or analysis following a particular event, in this case, the post-implementation evaluation of the AYUSH policy. It reflects on the responses and perceptions of experts regarding the efficacy of the policies enacted.
12) Perception:
Perception pertains to the way stakeholders view the state of AYUSH practices and their implementation. Expert feedback collected in the study reveals that there exists a general perception of poor implementation status and support within the AYUSH framework.
13) Inference:
Inference is the process of drawing conclusions based on collected opinions and research. The study made inferences about the effectiveness of the AYUSH policy based on expert responses, indicating significant shortcomings in its application.
14) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the degree to which a substance can harm individuals. Concerns related to the safety of traditional medicines and the need for stringent regulations around toxicity levels in AYUSH products were discussed, emphasizing health risks to consumers.
15) Training:
Training encompasses the education and skill development necessary for practitioners in Ayurvedic and other AYUSH fields. Quality training is foundational for ensuring effective delivery of AYUSH health services, yet the study finds current training inadequately prepares staff.
16) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to traditional practitioners in Ayurveda, an essential aspect of delivering services in the AYUSH framework. The effectiveness of Vaidyas hinges on the quality of education and support they receive, as highlighted in critiques of the existing system.
17) Diet:
Diet relates to dietary practices and recommendations integral to health in AYUSH systems. The study points to the need for a better understanding of diet and lifestyle modifications associated with traditional medicine, which are vital for holistic health improvements.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Evaluation of national policy on Indian medicine: Stakeholders' view�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Cultural impact, Traditional medicine, Indian systems of medicine, Government support, Educational standard, Political will, Public awareness, Quality Control, Pilot study, Research and development, AYUSH System, Monitoring and evaluation, Standardization technique, Accreditation System, Public health experts, Integrated healthcare, AYUSH facilities, Research councils.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.