Abstract

Tapan Kumar Mahato*

ABSTRACT

India is a large country and is ranked as the second most populous nation in the world. It is difficult to ensure the upkeep and effective operation of healthcare systems in a nation with such a large population. Recent surveys and reports from around the world indicate that India does not have a healthy health index. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the health index of some southern Indian states such as Kerala, Tamilnadu, and Telangana is good, while the health index of some northern Indian states such as Bihar and Uttar Pradesh is poor. The healthcare systems in India face a number of challenges, such as a lack of awareness, a lack of access to healthcare, a shortage of healthcare professionals, high treatment costs, and a lack of accountability. Pharmacists have sufficient knowledge and skills to educate people and the general public about treatment, diagnosis, prevention, and mitigation of health problems. They are able to provide patients with sound advice in a variety of areas, including the appropriate use of medications, dietary recommendations, communicable and non-communicable diseases, pathogens and diseases related to them, and more. By involving pharmacists in health awareness programmes, patient counselling, and eradication programmes, one of the options available to raise the health index is to reduce the number of preventable illnesses. In this manner, those in need and those living in poverty, whether they are located in an urban or rural setting, will have access to medical care. The current health index of India, the challenges faced by Indian healthcare systems, and the ways in which pharmacists can contribute to the improvement of healthcare systems were all examined and discussed in this study.