Calls for Urgent Reforms to Ensure Equitable Access to Quality Healthcare and Meet Growing National Demand for Medical Professionals
November 5th 2024 — The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) has unveiled a pivotal new report titled Strengthening Post Graduate Medical Education in India at the 18th edition of FICCI HEAL 2024, its annual healthcare conference. This comprehensive report underscores the critical need to modernize India’s postgraduate medical education system to support the country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals by addressing affordability, accessibility, and availability—the “3As”—which are foundational to achieving equitable healthcare for all.
In the face of a rapidly growing population and rising healthcare demands, the report details key areas where India’s medical education system needs enhancement. While government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat Yojana and the National Digital Health Mission have marked major strides towards UHC, workforce shortages and disparities in medical education remain obstacles. The report emphasizes the need to align medical education with evolving healthcare needs and international standards to foster a well-qualified, skilled workforce that can deliver accessible, high-quality care nationwide.
Key Challenges Highlighted in the Report
- Workforce Shortages: Limited postgraduate seats and the migration of students abroad contribute to a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals in India.
- Geographic Disparities: Rural and underserved regions face a significant lack of medical seats, intensifying regional disparities in healthcare availability.
- Preference for MD/MS over DNB: A strong preference for MD/MS programs restricts the diversity of training options. The report advocates elevating DNB (Diplomate of National Board) programs as prestigious alternatives.
- Research and Compliance Gaps: Insufficient emphasis on research and regulatory compliance, along with a misalignment between specialty training and actual healthcare demands, are ongoing concerns.
Recommendations for Strengthening PG Medical Education
The report outlines strategic actions to enhance India’s postgraduate medical education system:
- Enhancing Quality: Modernize curricula with a focus on competency-based education, ethics, and soft skills; improve faculty training; integrate digital health tools; and promote public-private partnerships to raise educational standards.
- Improving Access: Expand PG seat capacity across specialties and regions, improve infrastructure through government and PPP support, and increase financial aid for medical students.
- Incentives for Less Popular Specialties: Provide financial incentives, career development opportunities, and greater recognition to attract students to less popular specialties.
- Alternative PG Programs: Position the DNB program as a reputable alternative to MD/MS through enhanced support and financial assistance.
- Fostering Research and Innovation: Create a supportive environment for clinical research, offer research grants, and encourage collaborative initiatives across institutions.
Commenting on the report, Dr. Anna van Poucke, Global Head of Healthcare, KPMG International said, “India’s healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, emerging as a beacon of hope and innovation on the global stage. With the government’s commitment to universal health coverage, we are witnessing a proactive approach to ensuring that healthcare is not just a privilege for the few but a right for all. However, as India embraces this evolution, a focus on cultivating a skilled workforce that meets the demands of modern healthcare is crucial. By addressing the urgent shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, India can ensure that its advancements translate into tangible benefits for every citizen. As we look ahead, India’s healthcare journey offers valuable lessons for the world. The emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and quality in healthcare can inspire other nations to rethink their own systems. In this era of global health challenges, it is essential that we share knowledge and best practices to build resilient healthcare ecosystems that prioritize the well-being of all.”
Lalit Mistry, Partner and Co-head, Healthcare, KPMG in India said “The transformation of postgraduate medical education in India represents a monumental opportunity for our healthcare system. We are at a crossroads where the demand for skilled medical professionals has never been greater. The report highlights that addressing educational disparities and aligning our training with healthcare needs is essential. By modernizing our curricula, enhancing practical training, and ensuring equitable access across regions and specialties, we can build a healthcare workforce that is well-prepared and committed to serving our diverse communities. This is more than just a response to current challenges; it is an investment in a healthier future for every citizen of India.”
