Union Health Ministry Reports Doctor-Population Ratio in India
Current Statistics
New Delhi: The Union Health Ministry has revealed to Parliament that the current doctor-population ratio in India stands at 1:811. This figure is based on the assumption that 80 percent of registered practitioners in both the allopathic and AYUSH systems are actively available. In response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reported that there are 1,388,185 registered allopathic doctors and 751,768 registered practitioners within the AYUSH system.
Growth in Medical Education
Minister Nadda further highlighted a significant increase in the number of medical colleges, as well as undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) seats across the country. Since 2014, the number of medical colleges has expanded from 387 to 818. Additionally, UG seats have increased from 51,348 to 128,875, while PG seats have risen from 31,185 to 82,059. These developments aim to enhance the availability of medical professionals in underserved, rural, and tribal areas.
New Initiatives for Healthcare Access
To address healthcare access, the government has implemented various initiatives. Under the centrally-sponsored scheme for the “Establishment of New Medical Colleges Attached with Existing District/Referral Hospitals,” 137 new medical colleges are currently operational out of the 157 that have been approved.
The Family Adoption Programme has also been integrated into the MBBS curriculum to promote equitable healthcare access for rural populations. This program entails medical colleges adopting villages and MBBS students adopting families within these villages. It facilitates regular follow-ups on adopted families concerning vaccination, growth monitoring, menstrual hygiene, nutritional practices, and adherence to medication.
Support for Medical Professionals
Minister Nadda informed the House about the District Residency Programme of the National Medical Commission, which places second and third-year PG students in district hospitals. Additionally, a hard-area allowance is provided to specialist doctors serving in rural and remote regions, along with support for their residential quarters.
Under the National Health Mission, states have the flexibility to offer competitive salaries to attract specialists, employing various strategies such as “You Quote We Pay.”
Regulatory Framework for Foreign Practitioners
Furthermore, the Registration of Medical Practitioners and License to Practice Medicine Regulations established by the National Medical Commission governs the temporary registration of foreign medical practitioners. This allows foreign-qualified and registered doctors to practice in India for specific purposes, including training, research, expert visits, and approved postgraduate and super-specialty courses.
Conclusion
The ongoing efforts by the Union Health Ministry signify a commitment to improving healthcare access and addressing the doctor shortage in India, particularly in rural and underserved areas.