In a significant stride towards standardizing medical terminology and facilitating global healthcare, the launch of Module-2 of the International Classification of Diseases-11 (ICD-11) promises uniformity in morbidity codes for Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha (ASU) systems of medicines worldwide. Ministry of AYUSH has issued a press release on this launch on January 30, 2023.
The Prime Minister of India highlighted this milestone during his “Mann Ki Baat” address on Sunday, 28th January 2024, underscoring its potential to alleviate challenges faced by patients seeking traditional medicine remedies.
The launch ceremony of ICD-11, Chapter 26, Module 2, conducted by the World Health Organization in Delhi, witnessed Prime Minister Modi commending the collaboration between the Ministry of Ayush and WHO in categorizing data and terminology related to ASU systems. This collaboration has culminated in the codification of disease and treatment terminology, ensuring consistency across medical practices.
PM Modi emphasized the practical benefits of this standardization, noting, “A solution to this problem that has been going on for decades has now been found.” Patients will now receive prescriptions with standardized language, facilitating comprehension by healthcare providers and ensuring continuity of care, especially when transitioning between doctors.
Furthermore, the implementation of ICD-11 Module 2 is expected to bolster research efforts in ASU systems globally. Scientists will have access to comprehensive information about diseases, medicines, and their effects, fostering advancements in medical understanding and treatment outcomes.
The groundwork for this initiative began during the Ayurveda Day celebrations in 2017, with the launch of the National Ayush Morbidity and Standardised Terminologies Electronic (NAMASTE) Portal by PM Modi. This portal played a crucial role in laying the foundation for standardized terminology in traditional medicine.
Union Minister of Ayush and Shipping, Ports, and Waterways hailed the global recognition garnered by India’s traditional medicine systems under PM Modi’s leadership, affirming the commitment to developing Ayush as a cornerstone of global healthcare.
The Secretary of Ayush outlined plans to incorporate ICD-11 Module 2 into national and international healthcare strategies, envisioning it as a milestone towards establishing a uniform global tradition in medical practices.
