The zero prescription coverage, which was speculated to be rolled out on the BMC hospitals from April 1, is prone to get delayed because the mannequin code of conduct for Lok Sabha elections has come into drive. Tenders for procuring important medication price a number of crore rupees have already been authorised. The BMC has determined to jot down to the Election Commission to hunt particular permission for implementing the formidable coverage.

Health Experts Criticize BMC For Delay In Zero Prescription Policy

However, well being specialists have slammed the civic physique, stating solely new tasks can’t be executed through the code of conduct. They identified that the coverage was authorised in December 2022 and Rs500 crore was sanctioned for it within the BMC’s finances.

A senior administrative officer, on the situation of anonymity, stated that the civic hospitals are already reeling underneath a 10-12% scarcity of medicines. Now, the overall elections have develop into a hurdle in implementing the coverage, which can be a “boon” for the underprivileged sufferers. “All the necessary processes for rolling out the policy were completed. There are less chances of getting approval from the Election Commission for the procurement of medicines,” he stated.

BMC Aims To Overcome Zero Prescription Policy Delay

Dr Sudhakar Shinde, Additional Municipal Commissioner, stated that implementing the “game-changer” coverage will not be that simple as routinely round 5,000 medicines and different gadgets are required. “We want to introduce the policy at the earliest. Hence, we will be writing to the Election Commission,” he stated.

In January, a young price Rs 2,300 crore for medication procurement was floated. However there are 3,000 important medicines that must be included within the schedule. “Tender processes have been conducted for the purchase of medicines worth Rs20 crore. It also includes medical materials required for surgeries,” stated an official. In yet one more bid to beat drug scarcity, a per day restrict of Rs40,000 has been set for the authorities to purchase medicines. However, medical doctors stated that the quantity will not be sufficient for hospitals with excessive affected person load. 

Published on: Thursday, March 28, 2024, 12:31 AM IST