Integration of NCD programs in India: Concepts and health system perspective

Abstract

Various health programs addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have been launched in India. Integration of these health programs will avoid duplication of efforts and will address the problem of NCD prevention in a holistic manner. Integration to address the comorbidity due to communicable diseases and NCDs is also required. Various approaches like disease domain, action level, and system level integration should be tried at state level on pilot basis followed by national level integration. Integration of concepts focusing on public health approach and clinical medicine; allopathic system and other Indian System of Medicine; and involvement of private sector in NCD prevention activities will go a long way in combating the already established epidemic in India. Integrated approaches focusing on population and personal clinical services with health system strengthening may be more appropriate strategy for controlling NCDs in India.