With over 20 years spanning FMCG, GBS, Technology, and Infrastructure Engineering at Unilever and Wipro, Sandhya is a business-focused finance professional, recognized as a thought leader in strategic finance, governance, technology, and diversity.
In a recent conversation with Women Entrepreneurs Review Magazine, Sandhya discussed about the integrated and conventional healthcare models, highlighting the role of interprofessional teams, ensuring social care integration, and leveraging technology for comprehensive patient care.
How does an integrated healthcare system differ from conventional care models? What role does an interprofessional healthcare team play in providing comprehensive care to patients?
The Indian healthcare system predominantly comprises fee-for-service models. This means that the healthcare ecosystem is incentivized to treat people when they get sick. In the integrated care mode, the payor (the person who pays the bill i.e. insurance) and the provider (the person who provides the health care service i.e. hospital) are the same. Therefore, the incentives are aligned to keeping people healthy. This ensures that health needs are addressed proactively, comprehensively, and on time.
How do we measure the effectiveness of integrated care models in terms of a focus on prevention, better outcomes, and reducing health inequalities?
The typical mindset among Indians is to avoid seeking prompt healthcare interventions due to the fear of discovering something wrong. Each health event is often treated as an independent occurrence and addressed only when individuals present progressive symptoms. Consequently, conditions may progress to more complex ailments requiring intensive interventions that could have been avoided with earlier diagnosis. In an integrated model, the care continuum is continuous, leading to early diagnosis, simpler care, and improved outcomes. Additionally, the ability to pay for health care through small, manageable premiums rather than bearing the entire cost of a major surgery upfront enables better access to healthcare thereby reducing health inequality.
How do we ensure integration between social care, public health services, and other vital services in your integrated care strategy when originating planning and decision-making processes?
A large part of our country is still serviced by the Public Health Services, which serve as the backbone of the country’s healthcare infrastructure, enabling coverage and access to care across the length and breadth of the nation. The Private healthcare system complements the public healthcare system with capacity, better throughput, and investments in modern technology and infrastructure. Our integrated care strategy aims at providing holistic care to people and motivating them to adopt health-seeking behaviors. Increased awareness of health needs and timely interventions contribute to better prioritization of healthcare capacities in the country.
How do psychologists contribute to the aim through their integrated behavioral health practices in pediatric, obstetric/gynecological, and family practice settings?
In integrated care models with unified providers and payors, psychologists play a pivotal role in preventing and managing health issues and reducing costly treatments. Their focus on mental health and behavioral factors aligns with keeping populations healthy and less reliant on acute care. This meets immediate health meets needs and supports broader economic goals of reducing healthcare costs and enhancing population health. In pediatric settings, psychologists early identification of developmental disorders early, offer family support, provide therapy, and collaborate with pediatricians. In obstetric/gynecological settings, they address prenatal mental health, and pregnancy loss, promote healthy behaviors, and manage stress. In family practice settings, psychologists assist in managing chronic diseases and modifying risk factors through counseling and interventions.
Can you describe how healthcare institutions can incorporate technology into their integrated care approach?
The present and future of healthcare is all about Clinical excellence propelled by cutting-edge technology. We’ve made significant investments in digitizing our care continuum, both operational and clinical. Our Athma system [Hospital Information System] offers a state-of-the-art electronic medical record management system and digitizes all aspects of hospital operations. This initiative has led to better clinical outcomes, improved throughput, and enhanced customer experience. Additionally, our Medha AI Capabilities (Analytics platform) provide clinical and operational insights at every level of leadership on a real-time basis, enabling faster and more effective problem-solving and action.We have invested in state-of-the-art technology in our clinical pathways, including advanced Robotic capabilities. We are committed to further advancing these technologies to ensure a superior healthcare experience for all.
Where do you see the future of integrated care headed? In your opinion what must healthcare institutions do to align with the impending industry evolution?
India presents a unique opportunity. On one hand, the country has access to advanced technologies and high-quality medical talent, making it a sought-after hub for medical services in many countries. However, India still struggles to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to its people.Integrated care solutions address issues of trust, access, and affordability, ensuring that all individuals receive the care they deserve. This approach will not only benefit the people of India by granting them access to necessary care but also propel our country further as a self-sufficient and progressive nation.
