Healthcare Services Crisis in Modi’s Home State

Despite being ruled by the BJP for decades, Gujarat’s healthcare system remains in disarray. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has issued a scathing report highlighting severe shortcomings in the state's medical infrastructure.

"Hospitals in Gujarat lack sufficient doctors and nurses. Even basic necessities like patient beds are inadequate. The healthcare system suffers from multiple deficiencies due to the absence of a comprehensive health policy," the report stated. The CAG also pointed out critical lapses in ICUs, operation theaters, and blood banks, emphasizing the failure of essential emergency services. The report was presented in the state assembly on Friday, detailing the poor state of public health facilities.

Severe Shortage of Medical Staff

The CAG report revealed that 22 districts in Gujarat face a 25% shortage of doctors, while 19 districts lack over 25% of paramedical staff. While the state allocated 5.4% of its budget to healthcare, the CAG recommended increasing it to 8% as per the National Health Policy guidelines. It also criticized the Health and Family Welfare Department for failing to formulate a proper human resource management strategy.

Between 2016 and 2022, Gujarat recruited 9,983 healthcare workers, yet there remains a shortage of 23% doctors, 6% nurses, and 25% paramedical staff. The report further noted that 51% of specialist doctor posts in sub-district hospitals and 49% in community health centers remain vacant. Under the National Health Mission, 31% of specialist doctor posts and 32% of paramedical positions are unfilled. Additionally, 76% of teaching positions in medical colleges and nursing schools remain vacant, raising concerns about the future of healthcare education in the state.