Reading Time: 6 minutes Well, who doesn’t like to travel? In the pursuit of health and well-being, the clinical significance of leisure travel and tourism cannot be understated.
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Blogs, Editorial
Reading Time: 7 minutes Discover 7 must-watch medical web series for students, from Grey’s Anatomy to House MD. Explore the world of healthcare on screen.
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Blogs, People Forum
Reading Time: 7 minutes This Chapter explores 5 countries that are dependent on tourism for their economic well-being. Tourism is not just a part of their economy; it is their backbone
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Blogs, Editorial
Reading Time: 6 minutes Explore the virtues of tourism, emphasizing its potential to foster cultural exchange, and economies, and cultivate a profound appreciation for natural beauty.
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Editorial
Reading Time: 4 minutes Journey To The Source: Exploring The Origins Of Ayurveda Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word, where “Ayur” signifies Life, and “Veda” signifies Sciences. This medicine system has its roots in ancient India and originated about 3000 to 5000 years ago, prevailing to the present day. With a Rich history and traditional heritage, Ayurveda is often admired and esteemed for its holistic approach to health and well-being. Just imagine how they managed to find cures for all ailments without the help of modern Science! According to Hindu mythology, the origins of Ayurveda can be traced back to the Creator of the Universe- Lord Brahma, who passed on the knowledge to Dhanvantari, the physician of the Gods. Another legend suggests that Lord Brahma shared holistic healing knowledge with sages, who passed it down through generations, eventually reaching the common people through oral narratives and writings. Yet another legend claims that Lord Brahma transmitted this holistic wisdom to Lord Indra, who then passed it to Atreya, the author of the Rig Veda and the Atharva Veda. Agnivesa compiled this Vedic knowledge, and Charaka further refined it. This compilation is known as the Charaka Samhita, encompassing all aspects of Ayurvedic medicine. The founder of Ayurveda is Charaka also called Charaka Muni, an ancient scholar and physician who contributed notably to the Ayurveda field of medicine. His work, the Charaka Samhita, continues to be a vital reference for holistic medicine practitioners and has been translated into Tibetan, Greek, Chinese, Arabic, and Persian. Ancient Wisdom Scripted in the Vedas The Vedas, the earliest written scriptures in the Sanskrit language, contain profound knowledge. The Atharva Veda, in particular, imparts wisdom about the healthy lifestyle we ought to follow. Ayurveda, often referred to as the 5th Veda has its roots in these ancient texts. Within these historical scriptures, the teachings concerning the healing properties of various herbs and medicinal plants are conveyed through poetic verses known as “Shlokas.” Recognition of Ayurveda on Global Platform In fact, Nepal has embraced Ayurveda and issued a National Policy on Ayurveda and it is widely practised there. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized it as a traditional medicine system, acknowledging its significance alongside other conventional medical systems from different countries. This recognition highlights Ayurveda’s importance in the global healthcare landscape. Principles of Ayurveda The Core Elements: According to Ayurveda, the body has four basics : Dosha, Dhatu, Mala and Agni aka “Mool Siddhant” which form the basic fundamentals of Ayurvedic treatment. 6 Pillars of Ayurveda: There are six pillars of Ayurveda i.e. right food, right exercise, right sleep, breathing & stress management, cleansing and self-awareness/self-reflectionIn essence, these principles are precisely what the doctor prescribes! Dietitians and physicians recommend this lifestyle to ensure our lives remain healthy and free from diseases. The regulatory principles of Ayurveda are “Vata” (wind), “Pitta” (bile) and “Kapha” (phlegm) aka “Tridoshas” which correspond to the three elements in the Universe : air, fire and water. “Vata” – maintains the activities of the cells in our body, electrolyte balance, and eliminates waste products. “Pitta” – regulates body temperature, co-ordinates optic nerves, manages hunger and thirst “Kapha” – lubricates our joins for easy body movement Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of maintaining a perfect balance of these three doshas to prevent illness and promote overall well-being. However, it’s essential to note that Ayurvedic principles and practices are based on a holistic approach to health, and individualized recommendations may vary based on a person’s constitution (Prakriti) and current state of health (Vikriti). Ayurvedic medicines are renowned for their lack of side effects, as they are crafted from natural herbs, medicinal plants, and sometimes incorporate the essence of fruits, spices, animal extracts, and minerals. These remedies are complemented by adopting a wholesome diet, a balanced lifestyle, and regular exercise. Notably, Baba Ramdev, a Yoga guru, and his partner Acharya Balkrishna established Patanjali Ayurved in Haridwar, a company specializing in Ayurvedic medicines and food products. In an episode of The Kapil Sharma Show, Kapil Sharma shared that actor Akshay Kumar follows a practice of chewing each bite of his food around 40 to 42 times. This aligns with the golden rule of Ayurveda, where chewing each bite 32 times is recommended for better food absorption and easier digestion Kerala: The Ayurvedic Paradise Kerala, a state in Southern India, renowned for its geographical location and beauty and wide array of natural herbs/plants, is considered the Paradise of Ayurveda. It is said that a physician from Sindh province visited Kerala in search of natural herbs and trees, and since they were found in abundance, thence began the association of Kerala and Ayurveda. While Kerala is a prominent hub for Ayurveda, Ayurvedic practices and treatments are used in various states across India, and it’s also recognized as an alternative or complementary system of medicine in many parts of the country. There are many Ayurvedic centres/spas here, where people come to rejuvenate and enjoy Ayurvedic therapy. There are also the largest number of Ayurveda colleges and practitioners in Kerala, as compared to the rest of India or the world Conclusion: Our country has so much richness in terms of culture and medicine. We should acknowledge this and ensure that this heritage is preserved for the coming generations, so that they can also reap its benefits, like us. To conclude with an Ayurvedic proverb “ When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use, when diet is correct, medicine is of no need”. Ms Rupal Sonpal
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Editorial, The Journey
Reading Time: 4 minutes Healthcare Beyond Borders: Exploring Medical Tourism “Borders are no longer barriers.” Medical tourism, the practice of seeking medical treatment or procedures abroad, has witnessed a significant rise in recent years. This chapter explores the clinical significance of travel and tourism, particularly in the context of medical tourism, shedding light on its implications, benefits, and considerations for both patients and healthcare providers. We will delve into key examples and insights offering us a comprehensive overview. Understanding Medical Tourism Medical tourism, often referred to as health tourism or medical travel, is the act of travelling to another country or region to receive medical treatment, surgery, or healthcare services. Patients opt for medical tourism for various reasons, including access to advanced medical procedures, cost-effectiveness, reduced wait times, and the opportunity to combine medical treatment with leisure travel. The world is a big place and every corner has something unique to offer. The Global Impact of Medical Tourism The impact of medical tourism extends far beyond individual patient experiences. It has significant implications for global healthcare systems, economies, and medical professionals. Countries with thriving medical tourism industries see a boost in their healthcare infrastructure and revenue generation. Medical Tourism supports the concept of Globalization and this helps in providing essential Healthcare facilities in almost all the places on Earth. Global Healthcare organizations play a crucial role in further enhancing the concept. Examples of Medical Tourism India: India is a prime destination for medical tourists, offering a wide range of medical treatments and procedures at a fraction of the cost in Western countries. Advanced healthcare facilities, highly skilled medical professionals, and renowned institutions like the AIIMS Hospital, Apollo Hospitals and Fortis Healthcare attract patients from around the world. Along with the advanced Healthcare facilities, India is also considered a prominent destination for Ayurved or Traditional Medicine and serves as a healthcare retreat where people from around the Globe get to explore YOGA techniques, meditation, etc. (Medical Tourism in India) Thailand: Known for its world-class medical facilities and the famous Bumrungrad International Hospital, Thailand is a leading destination for medical tourists. The country offers everything from cosmetic surgeries to complex cardiac procedures, often at competitive prices. (Medical Tourism in Thailand) Singapore: Singapore is renowned for its high-quality healthcare services, exemplified by institutions like the Singapore General Hospital. Medical tourists flock to Singapore for treatments ranging from organ transplants to cancer care. (Medical Tourism in Singapore) United States (USA): Renowned for cutting-edge medical technology and world-class healthcare facilities, the USA attracts patients seeking specialized treatments and surgeries. It’s a global leader in medical research and innovation, offering advanced procedures and therapies. United Kingdom (UK): The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides high-quality healthcare services to its residents. Its emphasis on patient care, medical research, and medical education makes it a hub for medical excellence. Germany: Known for its medical tourism, Germany combines state-of-the-art medical technology with a high level of expertise. The country’s focus on research and development has resulted in some groundbreaking medical advancements. South Korea: Renowned for its advanced cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures, South Korea’s medical facilities are sought after by patients looking for aesthetic enhancements. The country is also making strides in other medical fields. Turkey: Turkey offers a range of medical services, including dental treatments, hair transplants, and cosmetic surgeries. It has modern healthcare facilities and well-trained medical professionals. Russia: Russia offers a wide range of medical specialities, including cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, neurosurgery, and more. Russian medical facilities are equipped with advanced technology and experienced healthcare professionals. (Russian Export Center: Medical Tourism) Benefits and Considerations for Healthcare Providers Healthcare providers, including hospitals and medical professionals, play a pivotal role in the medical tourism industry. They must navigate regulatory, ethical, and logistical challenges while ensuring quality care for international patients. Ethical and Legal Aspects Medical tourism raises ethical and legal questions regarding patient safety, informed consent, and the standard of care provided. Healthcare providers and Institutions must adhere to international standards and regulations, maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the patient’s journey. Patient-Centric Care and Cultural Sensitivity Cultural competency and sensitivity are vital when treating international patients. The language barriers, cultural differences, and unique healthcare expectations must be addressed efficiently. Tailoring care to individual patient needs is paramount. Challenges and Opportunities Healthcare providers must adapt to the evolving landscape of medical tourism, capitalizing on opportunities while mitigating challenges. Economic benefits, international recognition, and expanding patient networks are significant advantages, but competition and quality assurance remain ongoing challenges. Timely research and advancements are crucial when catering to the needs of the patients. Enhancing Patient Experience The patient experience is central to the success of medical tourism. Healthcare providers should focus on personalized care, streamlined processes, and post-treatment support to ensure patients receive comprehensive and satisfactory care Conclusion: Medical tourism is a dynamic and evolving field that offers numerous clinical opportunities and challenges for healthcare providers worldwide. It has the potential to benefit patients, healthcare systems, and economies when managed ethically and professionally. As the medical tourism industry continues to grow, healthcare professionals and institutions should stay informed, adapt to changing trends, and prioritize patient-centric care to navigate this unique healthcare landscape successfully. References Medical Tourism: What Is It, And Is It Right For You? Medical Tourism Association Medical Tourism Magazine American Medical Association: Guidelines for Medical Tourism The Impact of Medical Tourism on Health Care Delivery in Developing Countries Dr Darshit Patel, MBBS
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Editorial