Access to healthcare is one of the basic human rights that every individual should have access to. In recent times, there has been a growing trend among people to seek medical treatment outside their local communities, often at considerable expense. However, this trend has some downsides, particularly for those who are unable to afford the cost of such treatment. It is, therefore, essential to examine why locals should have more confidence in the healthcare system within their communities and make use of local healthcare services.
PMF, 71 YEARS, Engineer suffered from Acute Chest pain at UAE, talked to brother back home in Srinagar, who happens to be a Doctor prescribed him some antianginal medication and also advised him to return back to valley as he might need angiography. A noted cardiologist at one of Delhi’s private hospital is known to family since many decades but the patient showed trust and confidence in local doctors and insisted to get the procedure done at Srinagar. While searching for doctor and team (narrowed on two choices Noora hospital or Khyber hospital Srinagar) both having upgraded cardiac setups. Anyway, the family preferred the Cardiac team at Noora hospital Srinagar. Well done Cardiac Team (Dr.Nissar Tramboo, Dr. Ghulam Nabi, Dr AG Ahangar and support cath lab team) at Noora hospital Srinagar provided excellent team work, coordination, support, worth appreciating. Even almost 99% blockage of coronary artery a high risk intervention could be dealt successfully without surgery.
Overview: Coronary artery disease is a common heart condition. The major blood vessels that supply the heart (coronary arteries) struggle to send enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. Cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the heart arteries and inflammation are usually the cause of coronary artery disease. Signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease occur when the heart doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. If you have coronary artery disease, reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath. A complete blockage of blood flow can cause a heart attack. Coronary artery disease often develops over decades. Symptoms may go unnoticed until a significant blockage causes problems, or a heart attack occurs. Sure, outside at any other place, it would amount to open heart surgery.
Successful removal of blockade with stent insertion was done, and the patient discharged in good health the next day with an affordable price. Successful PCI of this magnitude was done locally at your doorstep reiterating my stand – Kashmir has talent, why go outside? If available locally utilise it – trust it -build your institutions and strengthen the hands of your own doctors. Sorry trolls I’m not marketing for any particular, or this hospital or Doctors, but my interest and focus is on talent hunt if available locally – try it first before venturing outside. Vindicates my stand on this subject – Why go outside?
In this piece, I will try to explore the reasons when locals have the talent needed to provide quality healthcare to their communities and why there is no need to go outside for treatment? Firstly, seeking medical treatment within the local community can be beneficial in terms of cost. When seeking treatment outside the community, there are additional expenses to consider, such as travel costs, accommodation, and the actual cost of the medical treatment itself. All these expenses can add up and make medical treatment unaffordable for many individuals, particularly those living in low-middle income communities. However, by using local healthcare services, these additional expenses can be avoided, and the cost of treatment can be more manageable.
Further, local communities have access to qualified healthcare professionals who are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality healthcare. Many communities have hospitals, clinics, and health centers staffed with local doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who have received their training from some of the best institutions in the world. Infact, many of these healthcare professionals have chosen to work in their local communities because they are committed to providing quality healthcare to their neighbors and fellow community members.
Secondly, local healthcare providers often have a better understanding of the local health problems, socio financial challenges that their patients face. They are familiar with the local environment, lifestyle, and habits of the community, which can be essential when it comes to diagnosing and treating diseases. For instance, a local healthcare provider may be more likely to detect and diagnose a disease outbreak in the community early on, as they are familiar with the common symptoms and signs. On the other hand, a healthcare provider from outside the community may not be as familiar with the local conditions and may miss some critical indicators, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Unarguably, local communities too have access competence and necessary skills to the latest medical technology and equipment. Hospitals and clinics in local communities often invest in the latest medical technology and equipment to ensure that their patients receive the best care possible. In fact, many hospitals and clinics in local communities have been able to provide some of the most advanced medical treatments and procedures, which were once only available in larger cities or outside the country.
Thirdly, seeking treatment within the local community can help to build trust between the community and the healthcare providers. When local residents use the services provided by their local healthcare facilities, they become more familiar with the healthcare providers and staff. They begin to develop relationships with them and trust their expertise and knowledge. This trust can be invaluable in times of emergency, as the community is more likely to follow the advice and guidance of their local healthcare providers. Furthermore, it can also help to encourage more people within the community to seek treatment when needed, as they are more likely to trust and feel comfortable with local healthcare providers. Assuredly, local communities are better equipped to provide personalized care and understand empathetically our issues. The healthcare professionals in local communities have a better understanding of the health needs of their patients because they are part of the community. They know the patients and their families, their health history, social constraints and their cultural background, which allows them to provide personalized care and healthcare packages that is tailored to the needs of each individual patient. This is particularly important when it comes to treating chronic conditions, such as chronic non communicable diseases like diabetes or heart disease, bone or spine diseases, rheumatic or neurological disorders where personalized care is essential to help patients manage their conditions and improve their quality of life.
Fourthly, using local healthcare services can help to support the local economy. Local healthcare facilities often employ local people, including healthcare providers, nurses, and administrative staff. By using their services, local residents are supporting the local economy and helping to create jobs within the community. Additionally, by using local healthcare services, residents can help to keep local healthcare facilities open, ensuring that the community has access to quality healthcare services when needed. Affordability and fear of getting exploited on medical needs is biggest constraint at the back of mind for every patient and family who need to go to hospital, local communities are more affordable for patients. Patients who receive medical treatment in their local communities often pay less than those who travel outside their communities for treatment. This is because the cost of medical treatment in larger cities or outside the country is often higher x200-300 percent more due to the additional costs associated with travel, accommodation, and other expenses. Additionally, patients who receive medical treatment in their local communities often have access to health insurance plans that are specifically designed for local residents, which are more affordable than plans that are designed for individuals who travel outside their communities for treatment.
Fifthly, seeking medical treatment within the local community can be more convenient for patients and their families. When seeking treatment outside the community, patients often have to travel long distances, which can be exhausting and time-consuming. This can be particularly challenging for those with chronic conditions or who require frequent medical treatment. On the other hand, by using local healthcare services, patients can receive treatment closer to home, reducing the time and effort required to access healthcare services. This can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or who have to care for young children or elderly relatives. Local communities have the potential to provide a better quality of life for patients. Patients who receive medical treatment in their local communities are more likely to recover faster and experience a better quality of life after treatment. This is because they are closer to their families and friends, which provides them with emotional support during their recovery. Additionally, patients who receive medical treatment in their local communities are more likely to receive follow-up care and support, which is essential for their recovery.
Sixthly, local communities have the potential to improve the overall health of their residents. When local communities invest in healthcare, they create a healthier community that is more resilient to disease and illness. This is because the healthcare professionals in local communities are better equipped to identify and treat illnesses and diseases before they become severe. Additionally, local communities that invest in healthcare often promote healthy living, such as eating a balanced diet tailored to local dietary habits with sensitivity to their local religious beliefs can help overcome many hassles in this direction.
Finally, using local healthcare services can help to improve the overall health of the community. By accessing healthcare services within the community, residents are more likely to receive preventive care, such as vaccinations, frequent medications or interventions which need hospital setups, and follow-ups and regular check-ups. This can help to detect and prevent diseases early on, reducing the need for more extensive and costly medical treatment in the future. Additionally, by using local healthcare services, residents can receive education and information on how to maintain their health, such as healthy eating habits and exercise routines. This can help to promote a healthier lifestyle within the community, leading to better overall health outcomes.
Lastly, local communities have the potential to create job opportunities and boost the local economy. When local communities invest in healthcare, they create job opportunities for healthcare professionals, which can boost the local economy. Additionally, when patients receive medical treatment in their local communities, they are more likely to shop and dine locally, which can boost the local economy even further. In conclusion, seeking medical treatment within the local community can—When it comes to healthcare, people often believe that the best care can only be found outside their local community. This has been a common practice for decades as people often travel long distances to receive medical treatment. However, with the increasing focus on community-based healthcare, it is becoming evident that local communities have the talent and resources needed to provide quality healthcare to their residents.
(The Author is a Senior Consultant Surgery, and expert in Healthcare quality improvement (control) and patient safety. He can be approached at: [email protected])
