The state government of Maharashtra has announced plans for a complete transformation of the state's health administration. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the administration to double public health expenditure, establish superspeciality hospitals in all districts, and strengthen the health system in rural areas.
The government aims to have medical colleges and super speciality hospitals in all 34 districts of the state by 2035. District collectors have been instructed to immediately purchase necessary medicines and equipment, and any complaints regarding the lack of availability of medicines will not be tolerated. Thirteen district hospitals have been closed down, and 12 more will be transferred to the medical education department, so new hospitals with modern facilities will be established in these districts.
The government also plans to strengthen women's hospitals in 14 districts and ensure that all district hospitals have provisions for major surgeries. Efforts will be made to increase health expenditures and attract more investment in the health sector. The government has allocated funds for ambulances, the National Health Mission, the construction of health institutions, and medical equipment. Loans from the Asia Development Bank and additional funds from other sources will also be utilized.
The Chief Minister has directed the appointment of an IAS officer as CEO of the Maharashtra Medical Equipment Procurement Authority and the creation of new posts in the health department. The recruitment process for existing vacancies is already underway. The government plans to establish nine new circles for the health department to handle the growing population and demand for health services. The use of telemedicine facilities in rural areas will also be increased.
The Chief Minister has emphasised the importance of cleanliness, water availability, and sanitation services in health institutions. Awareness and remedial measures will be implemented for vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue. High-ranking officials including Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Health Minister Tanaji Sawant, Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif, and others were present at the meeting.
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
