In a major relief for patients, the King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow is set to provide a vast range of medicines and surgical implants at significantly reduced prices. The initiative promises to ease the financial burden on thousands seeking treatment at the premier institution.
Massive Price Cut for Essential Supplies
The university has finalized a new rate contract that will allow patients to purchase approximately 11,500 different types of medicines and surgical items at costs 60-70% lower than prevailing market rates. This benefit will be accessible through the Hospital Revolving Fund (HRF) stores located within the KGMU campus.
Currently, 22 HRF stores are operational across various departments. Under the new framework, both Outpatient Department (OPD) visitors and admitted patients can avail of these subsidized rates. The expanded list includes about 6,500 types of medicines and 5,000 surgical items and implants.
Comprehensive Range and Quality Assurance
The extensive inventory covers critical treatment areas. Patients will find affordable options for antibiotics, cancer drugs, bone- and implant-related medicines, as well as treatments for stomach, respiratory, ENT, skin, and mental health conditions. Drugs for heart and transplant-related treatments are also included.
Dr. Kumar Shantanu, the HRF in-charge, stated that the tender process is currently underway and details are available on the KGMU website. More than 500 companies from across India are expected to participate in this large-scale procurement.
To ensure the highest standards, KGMU has formed over 50 committees comprising around 150 members. These committees are tasked with rigorously checking the quality and standards of all medicines and implants offered.
Stringent Vendor Criteria for Transparency
In a significant move to guarantee quality, only large manufacturing companies will be eligible to supply products. Dealers, distributors, and stockists will not be permitted to participate in the tender process.
"Companies must submit licences and quality reports for each medicine, along with details of the drug formulation and manufacturing source," Dr. Shantanu explained. Officials highlighted that demanding drug formulation details is a new step aimed at ensuring unparalleled quality and transparency in the supply chain.
The entire tender process for drug supply is expected to be completed within the next 3 to 4 months. Once implemented, this initiative is poised to make healthcare at KGMU substantially more affordable and accessible, setting a benchmark for other public medical institutions.
