On 7 April 2023, which is World Health Day – the World Health Organization observes its 75 th birthday. So, WHO’s 75th anniversary is actually an opportunity – to look back on public health successes that have improved quality of life during the last seven decades. It is also an occasion to spurn some action – to tackle the health challenges of today & tomorrow.
In the recent past, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our perception of health. It highlighted the critical importance of investing in healthcare systems and being prepared too. It has also exposed the existing inequalities in healthcare access and outcomes, with marginalized communities; and it also put the spotlight on low-income countries bearing the brunt of the pandemic’s impact.
The theme for 2023 is : Health for All: Everyone, Everywhere.
The theme of World Health Day 2023 focuses on the invaluable contributions of nurses and midwives, who make up a tireless-and-dedicated workforce, who has played a significant role in revolutionizing the healthcare industry as we know it today.
What is the impact of observing World Health Day?
Providing a platform for health organizations, governments and individuals to advocate for positive change and promote health equity, the day has helped to mobilize resources and support for a variety of global health initiatives – such as the eradication of smallpox and polio. The annual observance of World Health Day has led to the development of new partnerships & collaborations – to improve health outcomes and fast-forward scientific research.
Of course, World Health Day has inspired the creation of many health campaigns and educational programs to promote healthy lifestyles.
Most importantly, the day has helped to increase public understanding of the importance of investing in healthcare systems and preparedness, particularly in light of recent global health challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
So, World Health Day has played a critical role in advancing global health goals and promoting health and well-being for all.
Healthcare entrepreneurship wielding innovation today
Entrepreneurship is the key to unlock the potential in Indian healthcare sector while at the same time, ensuring that its social benefit reaches far & wide. A health entrepreneur definitely brings a focused approach to his work and also applies his domain expertise. Usually, an entrepreneur, particularly in healthcare, approaches the sector as a need – based market.
To be specific, one of the prominent ways entrepreneurship & healthcare are related is that today, business practices are driving the industry; and healthcare professionals are using business concepts to get ahead, which is actually disrupting traditional healthcare. Plus, market incentives are luring experienced entrepreneurs & investors into the healthcare industry. They are indeed, finding a welcome market – open to new ideas and technologies.
Stepping into the future, it appears that entrepreneurship & healthcare are linked and, the reality is that they will continue to be connected for some time.
Lastly, healthcare is becoming less directed and more open as the industry embraces a “patients-as-consumers” mindset. All this directs healthcare providers to respond by employing integrated marketing services – which is something that was virtually unheard of in the past!! But, now, putting it bluntly – it is winning in many ways.
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
