Bihar Jharkhand Medical Forum Hosts Press Conference Highlighting Healthcare Challenges and Advances

New Delhi: The Bihar Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF) organized a press conference titled “Current Medical Challenges in India: A Focus on Bihar and Jharkhand”. The event underscored critical healthcare issues across the states and nationwide, focusing on improving access and quality of care.

The Chief Guest, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health and President of the Bharatiya Janata Party, delivered a comprehensive address on the evolution of healthcare in India, highlighting recent government initiatives.

In his speech, Shri Nadda emphasized the transformative role of Ayushman Bharat in reducing healthcare costs for millions. He also announced the upcoming second phase of the program, which will extend health coverage of ₹5 lakh annually to individuals above 70 years, ensuring lifelong care.

“There is a 125% increase in medical seats from 51,000 in 2014 to 1,15,412. PM Modi has said that 75,000 seats will be added in the next five years,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare education.

“Bihar is on the cusp of a healthcare revolution,” remarked Shri Nadda. “With Asia’s second-largest hospital coming up in Patna and a dramatic increase in medical college seats, we are laying a strong foundation for a healthier future.”

The conference featured key discussions on ensuring equitable access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas where disparities persist.

Dr Anshuman Kumar, a cancer surgeon and BJMF member, stressed the importance of early detection and prevention, particularly in underserved regions.

“The BJMF is making impactful contributions in improving healthcare access, and it is our collective duty to ensure healthcare reaches every corner of Bihar and Jharkhand,” he noted.

Dr Rakesh Nath Prasad, another BJMF member, reiterated the forum's mission.

“Our mission is to bridge the healthcare divide in Bihar and Jharkhand. We are committed to advocating for the resources and facilities necessary to ensure that every patient has access to quality care, particularly for complex diseases that require specialized treatment,” he explained.

The event attracted senior doctors from prominent institutions, including AIIMS, Safdarjung, Apollo, Max, and Fortis, enabling a rich exchange on complex diseases like cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and diabetes.

It concluded with proposals for awareness campaigns, workshops, future health camps, and an International Medical Conference planned for 2025.