Healthcare Reforms Take Centre Stage
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government made significant efforts in 2025 to bring healthcare services closer to citizens. From infrastructure expansion to improved emergency services, the year witnessed several achievements. However, doctor shortages, incomplete initiatives, and systemic weaknesses indicate that reforms are still a work in progress.
Discipline and Accountability Under Pathak
Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Brajesh Pathak, the Health Department prioritized discipline and accountability. Strict action was taken against unauthorised absenteeism, negligence, corruption, and illegal private practice, with over 50 doctors suspended or dismissed during the year, aiming to protect patient interests rather than instill fear.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare
Special emphasis was placed on primary healthcare through the expansion of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. By year-end, 22,775 centres were operational, offering 58 essential medicines and 13 diagnostic services. Deployment of Community Health Officers (CHOs) and ANMs improved access for women and children, easing the burden on district hospitals.
Advanced Emergency Care Systems
The launch of the Heart Attack (STEMI) Care Network and the Hub-and-Spoke model for stroke treatment marked a milestone in emergency care. Major medical institutions acted as hubs, while district hospitals and CHCs functioned as spokes. The system ensured timely primary treatment, CT scans, thrombolytic therapy, and referrals, reportedly saving over 150 lives.
Ambulance Services and Ayushman Bharat Achievements
The government added more than 2,500 ambulances, making UP’s 108 and 102 services among the fastest in India. The state also led in Ayushman Bharat implementation, issuing 5.21 crore cards and providing free treatment to over 57 lakh patients. Subsidised OPD counselling in private hospitals and strict action against fraud reinforced financial discipline.
Shortage of Doctors and Specialist Staff
Despite the expansion, the shortage of doctors, especially in rural areas, remained a critical challenge. To address this, the government raised the retirement age from 62 to 65, appointed experts under NHM, and continued the introduction of DNB courses. Experts believe these measures will show results in the medium and long term, but immediate gaps persist.
Medical Education and Safety Concerns
The year saw record growth in MBBS and PG seats across 81 medical colleges, with advanced facilities like robotic surgery and bone marrow transplants enhancing education and treatment. However, teacher shortages and incidents such as fake freedom fighter certificates in NEET admissions highlighted systemic loopholes. The Lokbandhu Hospital fire further raised concerns over hospital safety, prompting mandatory drills and alarms.
Looking Ahead to 2026
While 2025 was historic in many ways, gaps remain in MRI availability, doctor shortages, and testing infrastructure. The expansion of primary care, emergency response, and Ayushman Yojana were major achievements, but 2026 will be the real test of the government’s ability to address these shortcomings and consolidate healthcare reforms.
