Panaji: The Indian Medical Association, during their meeting with the 16th Finance Commission, has demanded the allocation of funds for cohort studies and research activities in healthcare in the state on Thursday.
IMA Goa President Dr. Dattaram Desai told reporters that the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Goa state was honored to attend the stakeholders’ meeting organized by the 16th Finance Commission, constituted under the leadership of the President of the Government of India, on 9th January 2025 at Cidade Hotel, Dona Paula, Goa.
Dr. Dattaram Desai, President IMA Goa state, along with Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Past President IMA Goa State, represented IMA Goa in the stakeholders’ meeting.
An exhaustive list of issues within the domain of the healthcare sector in the state of Goa was presented, along with probable solutions to the honorable committee.
The following two pertinent issues were highlighted in front of the committee:
- Allocation of funds for cohort studies and research activities in healthcare.
- Streamlining a dedicated program for HPV vaccines.
IMA Goa also identified and presented the following key areas that need urgent attention and financial assistance to improve public health in the state:
- Policy for safeguarding investments made by the private healthcare sector.
- Up-skilling courses for better human resources in the healthcare sector.
- Doorstep delivery of public health services.
- Registry for specially-abled children and citizens.
- Ex-gratia financial assistance for palliative and end-of-life care centers.
- Special-purpose vehicle to promote medical tourism.
- Non-communicable disease registry.
- Real-time disease monitoring with the help of telemedicine.
- National and state-specific grid for mental health providers.
- Emergency ambulatory services for rural areas.
IMA Goa state has also made two special recommendations to the 16th Finance Committee.
The first recommendation involves creating special health zones in underserved or unserved areas of the state by creating aided private hospitals under the PPP model.
IMA Goa state has also expressed willingness to work in the field of medical disaster management along with the state government and provide continued relief support in various adversities.
Both the main issues presented by IMA Goa state in the discussion were mentioned in the concluding remarks by the President of the Commission. The President also urged the industry to come forward and participate in supporting research-based activities in the healthcare sector.
