If we succeed in removing health and education from the business category, intending to provide these basic human necessities to every member of society, the day is not far when we will emerge as a dignified nation and make a mark in the world

Good health is a great blessing from Allah. Regardless of how much we express our gratitude to Allah, it always seems insufficient. If we meticulously examine the human body, from hair to nails, from eyelids to fingertips, and every small and large organ, it is evident that humans are the handiwork of Allah. The Lord of the Universe himself states in the Holy Quran that he has created man in a beautiful form. However, sometimes, due to one’s own mistakes or tests predetermined by destiny, the blessing of health is lost. Accidents or illnesses can put us in a state where every moment feels like doom. In such situations, we often turn to various healthcare practitioners, such as hakims, homoeopaths, doctors, semi-hakims, jogi babas and pirfakirs.
In the 21st century, medical sciences worldwide have undergone a revolution, with continuous modern research in the field of health. Solutions to health problems, ranging from hair growth to various organ issues, have been developed with considerable sophistication and expertise. Medical science has advanced to the point where therapeutic treatments effectively address most physical or mental health problems, which is indeed commendable. While there is no shortage of capable and well-known doctors, it is regrettable that the health sector has transformed into a business in today’s era. Once considered divine and a form of worship dedicated to serving suffering humanity, the scenario has changed drastically.
For many doctors today, the patient’s body is perceived as a treasure trove, similar to Alibaba’s cave of forty thieves, from which goods are taken freely. Observing the deplorable state of health in our valley, it is worse than anywhere else. Administrative issues aside, the excessive construction of hospitals in small areas, the absence of adequate parking facilities, and the potential environmental impact raise concerns for the local population.
Returning to health matters, it is disheartening to note that these establishments are no longer hospitals but rather resemble slaughterhouses, where the skin of humanity is figuratively removed with a blunt knife—a practice akin to butchers. The victims are often newcomers, simple and innocent people from the mountains, or patients from rural areas. Even the elite class, after discharge from these hospitals, regrets their choices. The prevailing sentiment is that although these hospitals have a prestigious reputation, the actual experience suggests otherwise. Informed individuals advise against choosing these large hospitals, emphasizing the need to opt for smaller, more reliable healthcare facilities.
As previously mentioned, health has become a business, with pharmaceuticals playing a dubious role. Overprescribing unnecessary drugs to patients is rampant, with doctors prescribing medications that patients may not even need. Patients from other areas across the state are often subjected to unnecessary surgeries or diagnoses, accompanied by a surplus of prescribed medications. Similarly, unsuspecting parents are coerced into unnecessary expenses for their newborns by claiming various infections and the healthcare card system is exploited to extract money from the government.
In clinics, procedures such as angiography and open-heart surgery are conducted with alarming frequency, akin to routine bicycle punctures. If we scrutinize other hospitals, butchers are metaphorically sitting at every corner. The health business is thriving, with unscrupulous practices such as substandard medicinal bundles, non-standard medical tests, and exploitation of patients’ health and finances becoming the norm.
Despite the government’s efforts against these mafias, success has been elusive. If left unchecked, these individuals will become more detrimental than a scourge to society. Although their contributions to humanity are acknowledged, turning a noble profession like healthcare into a business is a cause for immediate concern.
In any case, the government should intervene to halt such practices. If we succeed in removing health and education from the business category, intending to provide these basic human necessities to every member of society, the day is not far when we will emerge as a dignified nation and make a mark in the world. Balancing the preservation of knowledge with serving suffering humanity is a noble endeavour that will contribute to our collective well-being.
The writer can be reached at [email protected]

Dr Feroz Ahmad Dar