Revised Operational Guidelines and Training Manual of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is becoming a major public health concern in India, with a prevalence ranging from 9% to 32%. The revised guidelines focus on health promotion, early detection, and a multidisciplinary approach to NAFLD care. The training module equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to identify, manage, and prevent NAFLD, particularly at the primary level.
Reforms in Healthcare and Education For A Resilient Future
The Indian Government has announced a series of comprehensive initiatives to boost healthcare and education sectors in the country. These reforms aim to enhance healthcare accessibility, improve medical education, foster research, and promote technological advancement. A press release on these reforms was issued on September 28, 2024.
Education and Health Ministries Join Forces to Combat Youth Tobacco Use
The joint advisory emphasizes the strict implementation of the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) manual within schools, colleges, and universities. The advisory emphasizes the need for collaboration between stakeholders, aiming to protect future generations from the dangers of tobacco addiction. This includes raising awareness of its harmful effects and promoting tobacco control measures within educational institutions.
India Unveils Shorter, More Effective Treatment for Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis
The BPaLM regimen, a four-drug combination, offers a dramatic improvement over traditional MDR-TB treatments. While older methods can last up to 20 months with harsh side effects, the BPaLM regimen can cure drug-resistant TB in just six months with a high success rate.
Proposed Changes to National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Rules
The amendment rules propose that applications for registration be submitted to the concerned State Council, except in cases where no State Council exists. The draft rules also propose to revise the registration certificate (Form C). Additionally, the proposed amendments broaden the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions’ (NCAH&P) responsibilities.
National Medical Register Portal Launched to Streamline Doctor Registration in India
Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare has inaugurated the National Medical Register (NMR) Portal of the National Medical Commission (NMC). The NMR will be a valuable resource for various stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies. It will provide a transparent and reliable source of information about registered medical practitioners, facilitating better coordination and accountability within the healthcare sector.
Prohibition of Manufacture, Sale and Distribution Of S(+)Etodolac + Paracetamol
The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) was tasked with examining the necessity of prohibition of the FDC. After careful deliberation and considering the scientific evidence, the DTAB concluded that the FDC lacked therapeutic justification and posed potential risks to human health. This finding was instrumental in the government’s decision to impose a complete ban on the drug.
Fixed Timelines Proposed For Registration and Renewal Under PNDT Act
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) is proposing to regulate processing time for registration and renewal applications under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC&PNDT) Act, 1994. The proposed amendments aim to expedite the decision-making process for registration and renewal applications, with a target turnaround time of 70 days.
Stricter Rules Proposed for Disposal of Ultrasound Machines
Ultrasound clinics and imaging centers will be required to inform authorities within seven days of disposing of old, unused or obsolete ultrasound machines or imaging machines. Renewal of licenses for facilities operating these machines will be contingent upon the proper disposal of old machines. Additionally, there will be no permission granted for addition or procurement of a new machines until old machines are disposed in prescribed manner.
MoHFW Enhances Stipends For Medical And Dental Interns In Central Government Institutions
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has issued an office memorandum enhancing the stipends for medical and dental interns in central government institutions or hospitals. Both, MBBS and BDS Interns, will be given a stipend of Rs. 30,070 per month with effect from January 1, 2022.
