The State government in Kerala has drafted their health policy for 2018. It’s noted that all Ayurveda healthcare practises and dispensaries are to be converted into primary health care centres. If effective, this mission to promote traditional medicine will ensure the practice is widely available in the Kerala state.
In the draft, the policy details the need for strengthening in the district areas. This is because these areas are in dire need of staff and field workers, especially in primary health care centres. The draft also states that ASHA workers may be employed.
The main cause for concern, stating in the draft, is the complete lack of specialist departments. By deploying the use of Ayurveda practices, those who currently receive little to no healthcare whatsoever. The document continues, stating that Ayurveda hospitals should be set up in all taluks in the State. This would allow traditional medicine practices in various existing buildings and facilities. Yoga centres would also be installed in these facilities.
In these facilities, the policy also wants to ensure that various health services would be available. These would include; CHIS, ESI, Karunya and RSBY.
Increase In Education
The final point noted is the recommendation suggesting improvements to education. In this point, the policy states that new Ayurveda medicine colleges should be set up and made accessible to citizens of the State. With institutions set up, more individuals could practise and spread the medical treatments. This would help provide a better quality of life for everyone.
However, the draft does state that some restrictions must be created to ensure the quality of the practise and education. If these colleges were to become a reality, they would have to strictly abide by the Central regulations. The rejuvenating policy suggests that Ayurveda should be aught in PG courses. These are the courses available to nurses and paramedics. This would mean that Ayurveda is taught in courses for these roles.
More details will be released from by State government as the draft is finalised. This could mean big changes are in progress which could improve the conditions of some areas, especially in Kerala. Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below!