Prime Minister Modi: Nursing economy and telemedicine are key to future health work

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the growing importance of the care economy and telemedicine in strengthening India’s healthcare system and said both sectors will play a key role in expanding services and creating new job opportunities in the coming years.Speaking at the fourth post-budget webinar ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas – Fulfilling the aspirations of the people’, Modi said that as demand for healthcare services expands domestically and globally, India must prepare its youth for emerging job opportunities in healthcare, digital technology and innovation-driven industries.“In the next ten years, the number of elderly people in our country will increase rapidly. Additionally, there is a huge demand for nursing staff in many countries today. As a result, the health sector is creating new skills-based employment opportunities for millions of young people. “Prime Minister Modi described the care economy as an important area for future workforce growth.He urged experts and policymakers to work on new training models and partnerships to strengthen the country’s health workforce and equip young people with the skills they need for care and related services.The Prime Minister also noted that telemedicine is playing an increasing role in expanding healthcare coverage across the country. “Today, a large number of people in remote areas are benefiting from telemedicine and their trust in telemedicine is increasing. However, there is still a need to increase awareness and convenience,” he said.Modi noted that India is working towards a broader vision centered on preventive and holistic healthcare while expanding health infrastructure across the country. Over the past few years, health care capacity has increased with the opening of hundreds of new medical schools in the region.He also cited expansion of services through the Ayushman Bharat scheme and network of health and wellness centres, which aim to bring primary healthcare services closer to rural communities.Modi said realizing the aspirations of the people requires joint strengthening of education, skills and health sectors.