It is my opinion that the Western region of India in general, and Mumbai in particular, is the economic hub of the country. Also some of the best known names in the field of medicine are from this region. Moreover, the political climate is quite stable. There is a long history of medical excellence in the Western region of India. Thus new modalities will be looked at eagerly. The doctors also have the skill sets to utilise the new equipment and so the word about the spreads to the rest of the country through conferences or meetings which helps to be the first mover in the field.
In healthcare, one needs to keep ahead in the race with technology and newer modalities of diagnosis. This can get quite expensive and hence is a real challenge. Newer modalities of therapy need to be implemented and that may not always be possible. Maharashtra government should be alive to the fact that Mumbai has been the ‘Kashi of Medicine’. To keep that status, there is a need for government support through lower taxation for the hospitals to help them generate funds needed to stay ahead in the race.
– Dr Sujit Chatterjee, Chief Executive Officer, Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital