The Goa chapter of Indian Medical Association has welcomed the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
In a statement issued by the President of Goa state chapter of IMA, Dr. Sandesh Chodankar and President of IMA Bicholim Branch, Dr. Shekhar Salkar, they said that while the country has successfully overcome post Covid-19 challenges, the budget for the year 2024-25 looks promising for healthcare sector, especially the
Cervical cancer vaccine for 9–14 year old females.
Cervical cancer is the second-highest type of cancer prevalent in India, with advanced research to establish pathophysiology of cervical cancer and its link to Human Papillomaviruses (HPVs) an indigenous cost-effective vaccine has been formulated by Serum Institute of India. IMA Goa Chapter has expressed happiness over the fact that the Government of India has envisaged a colossal initiative to vaccinate girlchild of 9-14 age group to safeguard them from cervical cancer.
The Goa chapter added that overall increase in outlay for health by 13% is a very good sign for health sector.
IMA applauded the investment of the government to upgrade Medical Infrastructure which proposes to set up more medical colleges by utilising the existing hospital infrastructure under various departments. IMA appreciates saying that this step will help to bridge the gap between doctor: patient ratio and prove to be game-changer in de-centralising healthcare thereby increasing accessibility and availability of affordable medical care. The IMA Goa chapter has further applauded government’s efforts for extending Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana to Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) Workers and Anganwadi workers mentioning that the government has sent a very good signals that the government cares for these workers’ health and its proactive step to ensure last-mile delivery of healthcare to ASHA, Anganwadi workers and helpers.
IMA further stated that various schemes for maternal and child care will be brought under one comprehensive programme for synergy which shall facilitate easy and effective implementation.
IMA has also appreciated Mission Indradhanush saying that the newly-designed U-WIN platform for managing immunisation will help in implementing Mission Indradhanush in better way.
