Can the Integrative Medicine Model Enhance Public Health and Universal Health Coverage?
Synopsis
Discover how the integration of Ayush with modern medicine can revolutionize public health and bolster Universal Health Coverage, as emphasized by Anupriya Patel at the World Governments Summit in Dubai.
Key Takeaways
Integrating Ayush with modern medicine can enhance public health.
Focus on prevention and long-term wellness is essential.
India's National Health Policy supports integrative healthcare.
Ayushman Arogya Mandirs provide traditional medicine services.
Traditional medicine is included in medical education .
New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) Integrating Ayush with contemporary medical practices in public health can significantly enhance Universal Health Coverage, asserted Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, during a statement on Thursday.
While addressing the audience on the third day of the World Governments Summit in Dubai, UAE, she emphasized the necessity to transition health systems towards a focus on prevention and long-term wellness.
In her discussion titled “From Policy to Practice: Investing in the Future of Integrative Medicine,” Patel pointed out the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, mental health issues, and lifestyle-related disorders driven by urbanization, poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, and chronic stress. This scenario necessitates a shift away from episodic and purely curative care.
“The fusion of AYUSH systems with modern medical practices and public health strategies offers a strategic route to establish a robust, preventive, and community-focused health ecosystem. This methodology is in strong alignment with the objectives of Universal Health Coverage,” stated the Minister.
Patel also presented India’s systematic and policy-oriented approach to integrative healthcare.
She illustrated how India has taken the lead in the structured amalgamation of its extensive traditional medical practices with modern medical science, effectively converting ancient wisdom into scalable, evidence-based public health models relevant globally.
As per the World Health Organization, 88% of member states have culturally accepted traditional medical systems.
In a prior media interview, Patel discussed how integrative healthcare has been institutionalized in India.
The National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 provides a strong mandate for integrative healthcare within the country. She mentioned that this model has been activated across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare systems in India.
At the primary level, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs throughout the nation are now offering traditional medicine services, including Ayush practices like yoga and wellness.
At the secondary level, Ayush blocks operate in secondary healthcare facilities, and national tertiary institutions are setting up dedicated integrative healthcare units, the Minister added, along with the incorporation of traditional medicine into medical education systems.
Point of View
This approach not only addresses the healthcare needs of the population but also aligns with global health goals. The comprehensive implementation of such a model in India serves as an inspiring example for other nations to consider.
NationPress
12 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of Ayush in public health?
Ayush plays a crucial role in enhancing public health by integrating traditional practices with modern medical systems, focusing on prevention and holistic wellness.
How does integrative healthcare benefit Universal Health Coverage?
Integrative healthcare addresses diverse health needs by combining various medical systems, ensuring access to comprehensive care for all individuals.
What initiatives has India taken for integrative healthcare?
India has institutionalized integrative healthcare through the National Health Policy, establishing Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and dedicated integrative healthcare units.
