Date : 05/08/2023

Relevance –

• GS Paper 2- Health,
• GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology – Health Sector

Keywords – AYUSH, Ayurveda, Healthcare, UHC

Context –

In the pursuit of universal health coverage, many countries are exploring the integration of traditional and non-conventional systems of health care alongside modern medicine. In India, the AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy) medicinal systems have been recognized for their rich diversity, accessibility, and affordability. Integrating these systems into mainstream healthcare can extend their benefits to a wider audience, contributing to universal health coverage.

The Potential of AYUSH Medicinal Systems

The Indian systems of medicine, collectively known as AYUSH, have gained broad acceptance among a large section of the general public. They are known for their comparatively lesser cost and great potential to address the healthcare needs of the population. Integrating AYUSH systems into mainstream healthcare can extend the benefits of these traditional practices to a wider audience and contribute to universal health coverage, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of the nation.

Skepticism Surrounding AYUSH, Particularly Homeopathy

Despite the popularity of AYUSH systems, skepticism remains, especially concerning Ayurveda and homeopathy. One of the key concerns is the failure of the Ayurveda establishment to keep pace with modern scientific advances, leading to diminished evidence-based quality. Additionally, some Ayurvedic treatments are perceived to be slow in their healing process, which raises doubts in the minds of the public.

The case of homeopathy is particularly contentious due to weak evidence supporting its efficacy. Studies, including the historical Nuremberg Salt Test, have raised doubts about the validity of homeopathic treatments, with many systematic reviews and meta-analyses showing limited clinically significant effects. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the safety of homeopathic treatments, especially in critical conditions like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. Critics argue that seeking homeopathic care may lead to delays in applying evidence-based clinical treatments and, in some cases, result in injuries or fatalities, which warrants further investigation.

Issues with Standards and Claims of Homeopathy

The lack of standardized evidence synthesis frameworks in homeopathy is another concerning aspect. In contrast to allopathic medicine, which relies on collaborative efforts involving various disciplines to set evidence standards, homeopathy has failed to present valid alternative frameworks for testing efficacy and safety. Critics argue that the claim of homeopathy being holistic should not be used to dismiss evidence-based medicine, as many proponents of evidence-based medicine embrace a biopsychosocial approach towards health. This highlights the need for transparency and rigorous evaluation in the development and application of alternative medical practices.

National Ayush Mission: Promoting Holistic Health

To promote the AYUSH sector and holistic health in India, the National Ayush Mission was launched in September 2014 by the Department of AYUSH under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, during the 12th Plan for implementation through States/UTs. The scheme involves the expansion of the AYUSH sector to support the efforts of State/UT Governments in providing AYUSH health services and education, especially in vulnerable and far-flung areas. The mission aims to address gaps in health services and make AYUSH healthcare accessible to all, thereby contributing to the goal of universal health coverage.

Adopting a Pluralistic Approach: Decolonizing Medicine

To decolonize medicine and achieve universal health coverage, India must adopt a pluralistic approach that integrates evidence-based and ethics-driven medicine. While traditional practices with proven health and developmental benefits should be retained, systems lacking robust evidence, such as homeopathy, must be critically examined. Collaborative efforts involving epidemiologists, biostatisticians, quality improvement researchers, and implementation managers, among others, should be undertaken to set evidence standards that promote transparency and rigorous evaluation of all medical practices.

Conclusion

The push to integrate AYUSH medicinal systems into mainstream healthcare to achieve universal health coverage and decolonize medicine is a commendable step towards providing comprehensive and accessible healthcare to all. However, this integration should be approached with caution, ensuring that all participating systems meet basic safety and efficacy standards. While AYUSH systems, including Ayurveda and yoga, have proven beneficial, skepticism surrounding certain practices, like homeopathy, calls for a thorough evaluation of their evidence-based quality and safety. By adopting a pluralistic approach grounded in evidence-based and ethics-driven medicine, India can pave the way for a more inclusive and effective healthcare system, thus advancing the overall health and well-being of its population.

Source – The Hindu