In a significant boost to the state’s healthcare sector, the Odisha government has allocated Rs 21,200 crore for public healthcare in the 2024-25 budget. This allocation represents an impressive 32 percent increase over the previous financial year, aligning with the normative allocation recommended by the 15th Finance Commission.
Key Initiatives and Investments
Cancer Care Centers The government plans to establish 11 cancer care centers over the next five years, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,046 crore. For the upcoming fiscal year, Rs 211 crore has been allocated to kickstart this initiative.
Nursing Colleges Seven new nursing colleges will be set up across the state, addressing the growing need for trained healthcare professionals. Additionally, the recruitment of 3,000 doctors and health personnel is slated for this financial year to bolster the state’s healthcare workforce.
Strengthening Primary Health Care The government aims to strengthen sub-health centers, primary health centers (PHCs), and urban primary health centers by transforming them into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. This initiative will provide comprehensive primary healthcare services, enhancing the reach and quality of care provided to residents.
Support for Medical Colleges and Hospitals Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced a Rs 200 crore corpus fund to address specific expenditure requirements of medical colleges and hospitals, not covered by the Odisha Medical Corporation Limited (OSMCL). The fund allocation includes:
- Rs 50 crore for SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack
- Rs 30 crore for MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur
- Rs 20 crore for VIMSAR, Burla
- Rs 10 crore for other medical colleges and hospitals
Surendra Sai Divya Drushti Yojana A new scheme, ‘Surendra Sai Divya Drushti Yojana’, has been introduced with a budget of Rs 50 crore. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive and free eyecare to all, including screenings and interventions for cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal disorders, and free distribution of spectacles.
Mobile Health Units (MHUs)
To extend primary healthcare services to remote and inaccessible areas, the state currently operates 177 Mobile Health Units (MHUs). The government plans to introduce 155 new MHUs in phases, with 50 MHUs to be deployed this year through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. An allocation of Rs 3 crore has been proposed for this expansion.
Infrastructure Development
The Mukhya Mantri Swasthya Seva Mission has been allocated Rs 2,462 crore for the development of health infrastructure. This includes:
- Rs 1,000 crore for the SCB Redevelopment Programme
- Rs 30 crore for OSMCL’s warehouse construction
- Rs 1,314 crore for the Ama Hospital program to upgrade infrastructure facilities in PHCs and community health centers (CHCs)
- Rs 84 crore for dietary provisions
NIRMAL Scheme
To enhance security, sanitation, laundry, and maintenance in healthcare facilities, the NIRMAL scheme has been allocated Rs 884 crore.
Conclusion
The Odisha government’s substantial investment in healthcare is a significant step towards improving the state’s medical infrastructure and ensuring better healthcare services for its citizens. By focusing on cancer care, nursing education, primary healthcare, and infrastructure development, the government aims to create a robust healthcare system that can effectively meet the needs of its population.
This budget not only reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing public health but also sets a benchmark for other states to follow in prioritizing healthcare investment. With these initiatives, Odisha is poised to make significant strides in healthcare delivery and outcomes, benefiting millions of residents across the state.
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