In a move to bridge the gap between the “Vocal for Local” movement and the healthcare sector, Dr. Atul Mohan Kochhar, CEO of the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), advocates for the integration of indigenous healthcare solutions with a focus on quality and patient safety.
NABH, is a constituent board of Quality Council of India (QCI), set up to establish and operate accreditation programmes for healthcare organizations. Formed in 2005, it is the principal accreditation provider for hospitals in India.
Addressing the global call for self-reliance, Dr. Kochhar underscores the importance of supporting local industries, not just in the production of goods but also in the provision of healthcare solutions. He highlights the profound impact that the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign can have on the Indian healthcare landscape.
Dr. Kochhar positions NABH as a key player in this transformative journey towards healthcare quality. He points out that NABH has provided the nation with comprehensive standards aligned with the vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat,’ marking a significant stride towards indigenous healthcare excellence. NABH accreditation, with its stringent standards, is presented as a benchmark that not only raises the quality bar but also aligns seamlessly with the ethos of supporting indigenous healthcare solutions.
Acknowledging the importance of community-centric healthcare, Dr. Kochhar emphasizes the need to tailor patient safety protocols to the unique characteristics of each community. He suggests that adapting NABH standards to local needs, cultural nuances, and healthcare challenges enhances patient safety and overall satisfaction.
Dr. Kochhar stresses the integral role of investing in the training and development of a skilled local healthcare workforce. He asserts that by cultivating talent within communities, healthcare providers become better equipped to understand and respond to the specific healthcare needs and challenges faced by the local population.
In a technologically advanced era, Dr. Kochhar advocates for the integration of technology into local healthcare solutions. From telemedicine applications to health information systems, he believes technology can bridge gaps, improve communication, and provide timely interventions, contributing to a safer and more efficient healthcare environment.
Localized health education campaigns are suggested as a means to inform communities about preventive measures, early warning signs, and the significance of adhering to prescribed treatments.
Engaging the community is a key component of Dr. Kochhar’s strategy. By involving the local population in quality improvement initiatives, he believes healthcare providers can build trust and enhance the perception of healthcare quality. This engagement ensures that healthcare services align with the expectations and preferences of the people they serve.
Dr.Kochhar asserts that the synergy between NABH standards and the “Vocal for Local” healthcare quality initiative creates a dynamic framework for indigenous healthcare excellence. This, he believes, will not only raise the quality of healthcare services but also celebrate the rich tapestry of diverse healthcare practices within communities.
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