Response to Nanded Tragedy
The Maharashtra government has initiated third-party testing of medicines supplied through the state’s medical procurement system. This move follows the tragic death of 31 patients, including 12 newborns, within 48 hours at Dr. Shankarrao Chavan Government Medical College and Hospital, Nanded, in late 2023.
Addressing Accountability and Quality
Public Health and Family Welfare Minister Prakash Abitkar stated that the government aims to ensure quality healthcare through rigorous checks on medicines and services. The review process will include verifying the drug content and quality of medicines supplied to hospitals.
Strengthening the Maharashtra Medical Goods Procurement Authority (MMGPA)
- The MMGPA, under CEO Chandrakant Dange, will receive additional manpower.
- The rate agreements between MMGPA and suppliers will undergo thorough scrutiny.
- Discrepancies in medicine quality or supply chain processes will result in strict action against suppliers or procurement officials.
Key Directives
- Quality Checks: Medicines from reputed companies must meet high-quality standards.
- Transparency: Hospitals must prominently display examination and facility rates as per the Bombay Nursing Act.
- Support for Poor Patients: A specific protocol will ensure affordable access to quality medicines for economically disadvantaged patients.
- Preventing Financial Exploitation: Measures will be implemented to avoid financial malpractice in hospitals.
Focus on Healthcare Improvements
The initiative aims to enhance public confidence in Maharashtra’s healthcare system by ensuring the availability of high-quality medicines and addressing systemic issues. Minister Abitkar reiterated the government’s commitment to providing excellent medical treatment and auxiliary services across the state.
