23 Nov 2024 • The Indian Chest Society has raised concerns over the National Medical Commision's (NMC) decision to remove Respiratory Medicine departments from medical college hospitals amidst the rising air pollution crisis in India.
Dr G.C. Khilnani, Chairman of the Indian Chest Society highlighted the alarming implications of this decision, especially with the current AQI levels exceeding 1,000 owing to the increased demand for respiratory care, as described by the POSEIDON study in the Lancet (2015). - Respiratory Medicine departments are specialized for diagnosing and managing Tuberculosis (TB), COPD, and other pollution-related illnesses. - Removal undermines India's TB elimination goals and jeopardises patient care

The NMC's decision, formalized under the UGMSR 2023 Guidelines, has faced criticism for lacking transparency and bypassing parliamentary approval. Experts across the country have emphasized the urgent need for systemic interventions, policy reforms, and robust respiratory care to mitigate these issues. The Government of India has intervened to prioritize respiratory healthcare to overcome the air pollution challenges currently being faced.

Source: Financial Express Healthcare | Read full story