Private healthcare providers in Manipur have called for government intervention to revive the state’s private health sector, which has been severely affected by the decline in medical tourism due to ongoing violence that has persisted for over 10 months.
The BJP Manipur (Manifesto Sub-Committee 2024) organised a “Doctors and Nurses Meet” on Tuesday at Hotel Classic Grande in Imphal, focusing on the theme “Your Dreams, Your Vision, Your Manifesto”.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Kh Palin, chairman of Shija Hospitals, emphasised the potential of medical tourism in the Northeast states, which are strategically located amidst four countries.
He noted that in past years, hospitals in Manipur welcomed over 5,000 patients from Myanmar and many others from various parts of the Northeast, however, due to the ongoing violence, the influx of patients has been restricted to only five valley districts.
Palin stressed the detrimental impact of the prolonged crisis on the healthcare sector, stating that people are hesitant to seek treatment in the conflict-ridden areas.
He further highlighted the ripple effect on the industrial sector, with investments coming to a halt.
Recognising medical tourism as a significant economic driver, he urged the government to take necessary measures to end the crisis and revitalise the health sector.
He proposed initiatives such as reducing electricity costs and providing government water supply schemes to hospitals to alleviate financial burdens.
Regarding the Central government health schemes, the doctor emphasised the urgent need for a rate review, as the current rates pose risks to patients. While acknowledging the importance of schemes like PMJAY and CMHT, he raised concerns about delays in fund disbursement to empanelled private hospitals.
In this regard, he urged for timely release of funds and a review of the covered facilities under these schemes.
In conclusion, Palin appealed for government support in terms of quality assurance, accreditation, and other initiatives to bolster medical tourism in Manipur, which is crucial for economic growth in the region.
The programme also witnessed the presence of Health Minister S Ranjan, MLA Th Arunkumar, member of Manifesto Sub-Committee BJP Manipur M Asnikumar, chairman of Raj Medicity H Rajen, BJP Manipur vice-president N Nimbus among others.
