Allied Healthcare (GAHC)

Doctors across the United States are voicing frustration over the stark disparities in drug prices between the US and other countries, following a recent report that exposes alarming cost differences for life-saving medications.

The report reveals that critical drugs like Humira, Revlimid, and Copaxone, widely prescribed in the US, are available at a fraction of their price in nations such as India. These revelations have reignited debates about healthcare accessibility and affordability, with patient advocacy groups and physicians urging lawmakers to enact reforms.

Staggering Price Disparities

The report highlighted shocking examples:

Humira: $82,000/year in the US compared to $2,200/year in India.

Revlimid: $763/month in the US versus $43/month in India.

Copaxone: $5,800/month in the US, while priced at $220/month in India.

The stark price gap is attributed to several factors:

Lack of Price Regulation: The US does not impose price caps on drugs, unlike many other nations.

Patent Protections: Extended patent laws in the US prevent the availability of cheaper generic alternatives.

High Marketing and Administrative Costs: Pharmaceutical companies in the US spend heavily on advertising and administrative expenses, further inflating drug prices.

Growing Calls for Reform

Doctors and advocacy groups are intensifying their demands for sweeping policy changes to address the pricing crisis. Proposals include regulating drug prices, allowing the importation of cheaper medications, and promoting competition in the pharmaceutical market.

US lawmakers have introduced a bill to regulate drug prices, aiming to curb exorbitant costs. Patient groups are launching campaigns to highlight the impact of high prices on everyday Americans. While pharmaceutical companies continue to defend their pricing strategies, citing innovation and research costs. As the debate intensifies, public pressure is mounting for transformative changes in America’s healthcare system.

India’s medical education sector has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade, driven by significant investments in infrastructure and policy reforms. According to recent data, the number of medical colleges in the country has surged by 68%, increasing from 381 in 2014 to 641 in 2024. This expansion has facilitated a 130% rise in MBBS seats, which have grown from 51,598 in 2014 to 1,18,316 in 2024.

The growth extends beyond undergraduate education, with postgraduate (PG) seats also seeing a notable increase of 135%, jumping from 30,191 in 2014 to 70,998 in 2024. These numbers underscore a concerted effort to address the rising demand for healthcare professionals in India, particularly in underserved areas.

The government’s initiatives have been pivotal in achieving this transformation. Policies aimed at establishing new medical colleges, upgrading existing institutions, and increasing the number of seats have been at the forefront of these developments. Additionally, significant investments in modernizing medical infrastructure and expanding teaching capacities have ensured that these new opportunities translate into high-quality medical training.

This growth is expected to have far-reaching impacts on India’s healthcare system. The increase in MBBS and PG seats will lead to a larger pool of skilled doctors, helping bridge the gap in doctor-patient ratios, particularly in rural and remote regions. Enhanced access to medical education also opens doors for aspiring doctors from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and equity in the profession.

Moreover, the expansion aligns with India’s ambition to become a global hub for medical education. By focusing on quality and quantity, the country is better positioned to attract international students and enhance its global reputation in the healthcare sector.

Experts believe this growth will not only meet domestic healthcare demands but also contribute to the global medical workforce. With more doctors trained under rigorous standards, India is poised to play a crucial role in addressing worldwide healthcare challenges.

The rise in medical colleges and seats is more than just a statistical achievement; it reflects a forward-looking approach to tackling healthcare disparities and strengthening the foundation of India’s medical ecosystem. As the country continues on this trajectory, the benefits of a robust medical education system will resonate far beyond its borders.

India’s pharmaceutical landscape is on the cusp of a groundbreaking transformation with the upcoming launch of its first indigenously manufactured paracetamol in 2025. This milestone, achieved by the public sector undertaking (PSU) Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited (IDPL) , marks a significant step toward reducing the country’s dependence on imports while enhancing affordability and accessibility for consumers.  

The development of the made-in-India paracetamol, a widely used over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic, is being hailed as a major success for the Indian pharmaceutical industry. According to sources, IDPL has successfully completed the critical technology transfer phase and is now equipped for commercial-scale production. This achievement aligns seamlessly with the Indian government’s ambitious “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, which seeks to bolster self-reliance across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals.  

The domestic production of paracetamol is expected to not only lower the cost of the drug for Indian consumers but also fortify the nation’s position as a global player in the pharmaceutical industry. Presently, India relies heavily on imports for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) essential for manufacturing paracetamol. The shift to indigenous production will significantly cut dependency, ensuring a stable supply chain and reducing vulnerabilities to external disruptions.  

Industry experts predict that this move will have a ripple effect, invigorating local manufacturing ecosystems and creating opportunities for small and medium enterprises within the pharmaceutical supply chain. Furthermore, the affordability of the indigenously produced drug could improve healthcare access across rural and underserved regions, contributing to better public health outcomes.  

The launch also signals a strong commitment to enhancing India’s capabilities in the pharmaceutical sector, a field where the country has already established itself as a leading exporter of generic medicines. By achieving self-sufficiency in paracetamol production, India is taking another step toward consolidating its reputation as the “pharmacy of the world.”  

As preparations for the commercial rollout continue, the success of this initiative is expected to inspire further advancements in the domestic development of essential drugs. With robust government backing and the expertise of PSUs like IDPL, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is poised to reach new heights, reflecting the broader vision of an economically resilient and self-reliant nation.  

The arrival of made-in-India paracetamol in 2025 is anticipated to set a new benchmark, underscoring India’s capacity to innovate and lead in the global pharmaceutical arena.

A significant surge in type 2 diabetes cases among Indian children has been reported, with statistics indicating a 10-15% increase over the past decade. The Indian Pediatric Society has sounded the alarm, urging immediate action by parents, schools, and policymakers to address this growing crisis.

Experts have identified the primary contributors to this rise as obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits. The excessive consumption of processed foods and sugary snacks, coupled with reduced physical activity due to increased screen time and a preference for indoor activities, has created a worrying scenario. As a result, more calories are being consumed than burned, leading to weight gain and insulin resistance—key precursors to type 2 diabetes.

Lifestyle modifications are being emphasized as the first line of defense against this alarming trend. Parents and caregivers are being urged to take immediate action by encouraging children to adopt healthier habits. Recommendations include promoting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while minimizing sugary and processed foods. Regular physical activity, such as sports, dance, or outdoor play for at least an hour daily, is also being highlighted. Limiting screen time to under two hours per day and scheduling routine health check-ups to monitor weight and other risk factors are crucial steps in mitigating this issue.

The Indian government is being called upon to implement robust measures to combat this public health challenge. Suggestions include introducing mandatory physical education programs in schools, offering healthier meal options in school canteens, and launching public awareness campaigns to educate parents and communities about the risks and prevention strategies associated with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the allocation of resources for pediatric diabetes research is being advocated to improve understanding and develop effective treatments for the condition.

Collaboration among families, schools, healthcare providers, and policymakers is seen as vital to addressing this pressing issue. Proactive measures today can prevent a worsening of the situation and ensure a healthier future for India’s youth. By tackling the root causes of type 2 diabetes and fostering a culture of health-conscious living, the alarming rise in cases among children can be curbed effectively.

A private hospital in Tripura has announced that it will no longer admit patients from Bangladesh due to the ongoing economic crisis in the neighboring country. The decision, made by the hospital's management, was based on the difficulty in receiving payments for medical treatments from Bangladeshi patients, as the country struggles with a severe financial downturn.

According to hospital authorities, they have faced recurring issues in receiving payments for treatments provided to patients from Bangladesh over the past year. With the economic situation in Bangladesh worsening, the hospital claims it has become increasingly difficult to secure payments for services rendered, forcing them to take this drastic step. The move is seen as a direct response to these financial challenges.

This decision has been met with disappointment and concern among many Bangladeshi patients who have relied on medical services in Tripura. For years, Tripura’s private hospitals have been a sought-after destination for healthcare for those living in Bangladesh, particularly for specialized treatments not easily accessible in their home country. Many families now fear the lack of available treatment options close to their border, adding to the distress caused by the economic crisis.

Local residents and patients from Bangladesh have expressed frustration over the decision, stressing that access to medical care is a fundamental right and should not be restricted due to financial issues. The situation has also sparked debate within healthcare circles, with experts highlighting the impact that regional economic instability can have on essential services like healthcare.

The controversy underscores the broader challenges facing the healthcare sector in countries with strained economies. The move by the Tripura hospital has prompted discussions about the need for governments to intervene and ensure that healthcare remains accessible to everyone, regardless of their country of origin or economic circumstances.

The hospital’s decision has raised concerns about the future of cross-border healthcare arrangements, especially in regions where healthcare services are critical to the well-being of neighboring countries’ populations. While the move is financially driven, it has sparked calls for greater international cooperation and solutions to address the underlying challenges that lead to such restrictions.

As India's healthcare industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled nursing professionals has soared. Nursing is a noble and rewarding career, but selecting the right course can be challenging for aspiring candidates. This guide provides an overview of the best nursing courses, top institutions, and entrance exams to help students make informed decisions.

Leading Nursing Courses in India

BSc Nursing:

A 4-year undergraduate program.

Focuses on theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and leadership in healthcare.

Ideal for students aiming for advanced roles in the medical field or pursuing postgraduate studies.

General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM):

A 3-year diploma course.

Prepares students for professional nursing and midwifery roles in hospitals and community healthcare.

Offers a strong foundation in nursing practices and patient care.

Auxiliary Nurse and Midwife (ANM):

A 2-year diploma program.

Trains candidates to provide basic healthcare services, particularly in rural or underserved areas.

Focuses on primary health education and maternal and child health services.

Top Nursing Colleges in India

JIPMER, Puducherry:

Renowned for its exceptional faculty and research-driven environment.

Provides state-of-the-art facilities and exposure to advanced medical practices.

Amity University, Gurugram:

Offers diverse nursing programs emphasizing practical training and skill development.

Known for its modern infrastructure and interdisciplinary learning approach.

SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre:

Combines rigorous academic training with hands-on experience in hospital settings.

Prepares students for both clinical and administrative nursing roles.

Key Entrance Exams for Nursing Courses

Admission to top nursing programs often requires clearing entrance exams. Notable exams include:

NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test): Widely accepted for BSc Nursing admissions.

KEAM (Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical): Relevant for nursing admissions in Kerala.

West Bengal ANM/GNM Nursing: Specific to diploma courses in West Bengal.

Aspiring nurses can begin their journey by identifying the course that aligns with their career goals and preparing for the relevant entrance exams. With the right education and training, a career in nursing offers immense opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society and healthcare.