Empowering Health: Health Minister Unleashes Focus on Transforming Diagnostic Equipment in Government Hospitals
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav addressed the media in Vijayawada on June 7, 2025, unveiling a new action plan by the TDP-led NDA government aimed at reforming the healthcare sector. This initiative is designed to instill discipline among healthcare professionals, improve their interactions with patients, and enhance diagnostic capacities in government hospitals.
During the press briefing, Yadav took a shot at the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), asserting that the NDA government does not label voters who chose differently as “back stabbers.” He emphasized their commitment to fulfilling promises made to the electorate with accountability and responsibility.
The Minister highlighted significant developments in the Primary Health sector, noting that the Central government has allocated ₹100 crore as a performance incentive for the state’s advancements in implementing Centrally-sponsored schemes at the grassroots level. He pointed out that this funding marks a notable shift, as the Central government had not provided such incentives in the last five years. Furthermore, he announced that the current administration has successfully secured ₹1,065 crore for the construction of 3,318 Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs, many of which are currently operating out of temporary locations.
Yadav underscored the importance of prompt and accurate diagnostics for effective healthcare delivery, revealing that over 3,200 diagnostic instruments have been procured within the past year. The government plans to bring 47 types of diagnostic tests directly to citizens’ doorsteps via ‘104’ service vehicles.
Touching on public health safety, he mentioned plans to establish drug testing laboratories in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Kurnool, alongside newly-sanctioned labs in Tirumala, Eluru, and Ongole as part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure drug safety.
In alignment with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s vision for a digitized healthcare system, an agreement has been made with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to create a Digital Health Command and Care Centre. This partnership aims to bolster telemedicine services and improve the management of drug supply chains.
Yadav presented statistical data reflecting the improvements under the current administration. Notably, attendance by doctors and medical staff has risen by 7.42% to 14.20%, outpatient services have increased by about 8%, while inpatient services have improved by 4% to 17.61%. Additionally, lab tests experienced a growth of 7.20%. Various surveys confirm a heightened public perception regarding the availability of healthcare practitioners in Government General Hospitals, overall treatment quality, and access to free medicines.
Looking forward, the Minister announced plans to implement a universal health insurance scheme covering up to ₹25 lakh, aimed at providing comprehensive financial protection to the public.
On the COVID-19 front, Yadav reassured citizens that the situation remains stable, with no current restrictions on gatherings. He noted the readiness of medical supplies, including N95 masks and oxygen cylinders, while advising that those with existing health conditions should remain vigilant.
Health Special Chief Secretary M.T. Krishna Babu and Commissioner G. Veerapandian were also in attendance at the press conference.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/focus-is-on-enhancing-diagnostic-equipment-in-government-hospitals-says-health-minister/article69669389.ece
Category : Andhra Pradesh
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Publish Date: 2025-06-08 04:50:00
