Health issues

This refers to the article 'Health issues' (Nov 21) by Kamila Hyat. If we take some cues from the health system of developed countries, there are certain major differences that may help us improve our health system.

In developed countries, the annual check-up identifies many health issues at a preliminary stage which are resolved before the worsening of the problem.

Comparatively, there is higher awareness on eating healthy food and drinking boiled/filtered water and maintaining a hygienic environment. Physical fitness and exercises are accorded high priority. From my personal experience of treatment at a foreign hospital, I observed that strict rules were enforced in admitting patients on a first-come-first-out basis – depending on the condition of the patient. In addition, patients don't need to rely on a private lab for tests. The paramedical staff is evenly courteous towards each patient. In our country too we need to revolutionise both prevention and cure.

Dr Najeeb A Khan

Islamabad