Is There a Vaccine to Save Public Healthcare from the Endemic of Privatization? One Doctor’s Healing Touch Says It All.

Abstract

Crumbling walls, cramped and crowded spaces, dirty floors, scurrying rodents, the long wait, and neglect - are these the first things that come to your mind when you think of a government health care facility? You would be surprised to know that there is a stellar exception to this disappointing picture, right here in our small state of Kerala in India. A grand reception, beautiful wall art, and a children’s play area- this is how the Punalur Taluk Hospital greets its visitors. If you are sceptical of the outer polish, then the quality of service offered and the inspiring work environment here are sure to convince you otherwise. All it took was one person’s unique vision and his unflinching commitment to it. Dr. Shahirshah is the man behind the scene. His relentless work and farsightedness have transformed the unassuming taluk hospital into a beacon of humanitarian healthcare. As the People’s Plan Campaign basks in the pink of its Silver Jubilee, Dr. Biju Terrence and Dr.Biju S.K., have a passionate conversation with Dr.Shah on how he developed a sustainable democratic public healthcare by integrating local people into its planning. Excerpts from the interview: