Docs: Coronary heart disease behind 3 lakh deaths in UP annually

Docs: Coronary heart disease behind 3 lakh deaths in UP annually 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 20.12.2024

Lucknow : The prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) in India now accounts for 15.8 lakh deaths annually, including around 3 lakh in UP only, with the number of cases tripling over the past three decades. The issue was discussed threadbare at the conference of the Cardiological Society of India which was held in the city recently. Dr Rajeev Gupta, a Jaipur-based cardiologist, said CHD has become one of the major causes of death in the country in recent years. 

According to recent health studies, premature deaths, especially among individuals under 60, have risen by 85% since 1990. Dr Gupta attributed this trend to a combination of urbanisation, lifestyle changes, and genetic predispositions. He explained that rapid urbanisation has led to greater consumption of calorie-dense diets, reduced physical activity, and increased sedentary behavior, all contributing to obesity and other cardiometabolic risks. 

Prof Rishi Sethi from KGMU cardiology department said that in addition to lifestyle-related risks, conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and stress have emerged as significant contributors to CHD. He also pointed out regional factors, such as a higher prevalence of elevated lipoprotein (a) and meta bolic syndrome, which further increase the burden of CHD in South Asia. 

Prof Satyendra Tiwari from SGPGIMS highlighted findings from global and regional studies, including INTERHEART and PURE, showing that poor dietary habits and high rates of tobacco use are critical factors driving the rise in CHD cases. Healthcare experts at the conference also discussed challenges in addressing CHD, pointing out disparities in access to preventive care and healthcare services. Limited awareness of modifiable risk factors and socioeconomic barriers further complicate efforts to manage the disease effectively. To tackle this public health challenge, experts recommended a multi-pronged approach. This includes promoting healthier lifestyles, better management of conditions like diabetes and cholesterol, and adopting preventive strategies such as the use of polypills, which combine multiple medications into a single pill, simplifying treatment regimens and improving adherence.

Mobile app to aid in curbing sudden cardiac death cases

Mobile app to aid in curbing sudden cardiac death cases 

Lucknow : 20.12.2024 

Leading cardiologists from across India, including head of cardiology department at SGPGIMS Prof Aditya Kapoor, have come up with a Revive CPR mobile app to bolster the battle against sudden cardiac deaths. Prof Kapoor said over 15 lakh people die of sudden cardiac arrest annually in India. Only less than 1% can be saved as there is lack of availability of timely CPR. “Doctors felt that covering the entire country was a mammoth task, and there was a need for technological aid to bridge the gap. Their effort was strengthened by the fact that India is the second-largest user of smartphones, with over 700 million users (including 425 mn are in rural areas),” he said. 

The app is available on both Android and iOS platforms. “It provides step-by-step audio-visual guidance for performing CPR. It provides expert’s insights about how timely CPR can save lives, besides explaining key issues like the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest, along with simple audio/visual cues for accurate identification for timely intervention,” Kapoor said. The app allows one-touch calling to 108 ambulance service, a nearby automated external defibrillator (AED) locator app with automatic AED detection and usage guidance, and linkage to a nationwide trained volunteer network. TNN

Govt. doctors remove screw from toddler’s lung

Govt. doctors remove screw from toddler’s lung

The Hindu Bureau

TIRUCHI 20.12.2024

Doctors at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) in Tiruchi saved the life of a three-year-old boy by removing the screw of an anklet that he had accidentally swallowed. The toddler from a village in Perambalur district was immediately taken to a hospital in Iluppur on December 13.

When X-ray revealed that the screw was lodged in the patient’s bronchus (large airway that leads from the windpipe to a lung), he was referred to the Emergency Room of MGMGH. Under the guidance of S. Kumaravel, Dean, KAP Viswanatham Government Medical College, a team of doctors, led by Radhakrishnan, head, Department of Ear Nose Throat Surgery, removed the foreign object with the help of a rigid bronchoscope. The patient had recovered from the procedure, said the statement.

Doctors advised parents to keep small objects and other potentially hazardous material away from the reach of children.

HC stays counselling for NRI quota PG seats in pvt colleges

HC stays counselling for NRI quota PG seats in pvt colleges 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 19.12.2024

Jabalpur : Madhya Pradesh high court on Wednesday, in an interim order, said that NRI quota seats shall not be filled in the ensuing counselling of PG courses at private medical colleges until it delivers the final verdict. The move came in response to a petition that alleges the 15% seats reserved for NRIs in the state’s private medical colleges are being allocated only in eight popular courses and not evenly distributed. A division Bench of high court, comprising Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice Anuradha Shukla, observed, “Taking into consideration the fact that the matter was heard and reserved today and a final decision may take some time, in the interest of justice and with a view to avoid the creation of third-party rights… until the delivery of the final order, the seats under NRI quota shall not be filled in the ensuing counselling of PG courses and be kept in abeyance.” HC reserved its final orders. The PIL, filed by Dr Ojas Yadav from Bhopal, says NEET prepared a merit list for NRIs and although there are 22 branches in medical colleges, state govt allocated NRI quota seats to only eight high-demand branches. Advocate Alok Bagrecha, representing the petitioner, argued that the “excessive allocation” of NRI quota seats in selected branches would affect the rights of meritorious students, as the number of available seats decreased. There are 545 seats in these eight branches, with 152 allocated under NRI quota. NRI quota seats should be distributed across all branches, the counsel said, arguing that the process adopted by state govt is illegal. The seat matrix of private colleges, which outlines the seats allocated to each category, was prepared in violation of Medical Education Admission Rules-2018, the petitioner argued before the court. Instead of the stipulated 15% for NRI quota, 40 to 50% seats have been reserved in various branches, the petition says, adding that choice filling is being conducted without providing time for claims and objections as per admission rules

Student association demands a reduction in cut-off for PG

Student association demands a reduction in cut-off for PG

By HT Correspondent

Dec 17, 2024 07:26 AM IST

IMA's Junior Doctors Network urges Health Minister Nadda to lower NEET-PG 2024 cut-off due to 15,000-16,000 vacant seats post- counselling.

Mumbai: The Indian Medical Association's Junior Doctors Network (IMA-JDN) wrote to union health minister JP Nadda on Sunday, urging a reduction in National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Postgraduate (NEET-PG) 2024 cut-off. Student association demands a reduction in cut-off for PG

This demand is coming after the second round of the NEET-PG counseling concluded. As per data by National Medical Commission (NMC), after round 2 counselling, 31,490 candidates were declared qualified for admission and around 15,000-16,000 seats remain vacant. Out of this, 1,500 seats are from Maharashtra.

The letter said, "Despite the extensive efforts by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) and other authorities, a significant number of PG seats remain unfilled across the country." It said that these vacancies translate into an underutilization of valuable resources in the country's healthcare education system and hinder the development of a robust medical workforce. The letter also stated that reducing the cut-off marks will ensure eligible and competent candidates to get a seat, which will thereby strengthen the country's healthcare system. “Reduction in cut-off marks will provide another chance to candidate fostering talent development. Also, this will address the disparity between the growing demand for specialized healthcare services and the availability of qualified professionals,” stated the letter.

In NEET PG's second round, 31,490 candidates were declared as qualified for admission. Last year, in a major relief to PG medical aspirants, the union health ministry directed the NMC to reduce the cut-off for qualifying percentile for NEET-PG 2023 to zero across all categories.

RGUHS evaluation: Medicos cry foul over mark disparity

RGUHS evaluation: Medicos cry foul over mark disparity 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 17.12.2024

Bengaluru : MBBS students of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) from batches admitted in 2018 and before have raised questions about the credibility of evaluation of answer scripts. As per the rules, evaluation is done by four experts, and the average of their marks is considered as the final score. Students allege that these four marks are often so varied that they lack credibility. When there is a disparity of more than 15%, the answer script goes to a fifth evaluator, and the average of the four best scores is taken. "Some of the marks will be as high as 70, while another could be as low as 10. How can the same paper have so much inconsistency when evaluated?" a student asked. 

A group of students approached the registrar on Monday, raising the issue. The process has been challenged in the Karnataka high court by various batches of students. For those from batches admitted in 2019 onwards, the system is different, with the best of two evaluations being considered. For the batches prior to 2019, the system has shuttled between considering the average of four, the best of two, and again the average of four, depending on court orders. “We're okay with the average of four or best of two. But our concern is that the university isn't addressing the basic issue where invigilators are giving extremely varied marks for the same paper. While a difference of a few marks is understandable, how can the marks vary so much for the same answer?” asked one student. 

“I attempted the same paper for the fourth time and failed by 1-2 marks. I lost out on six months studying the same paper at home. And every time we have to reappear, we end up paying as much as Rs 2 lakh in private seats for repeat exam fees,” said another student. RGUHS vice-chancellor MK Ramesh said there are around 3.5 lakh students, with about 12 lakh answer scripts for 38,000 evaluators. “It is only natural that a few students might have an issue. We're also engaging with the evaluators, giving instructions, directions, advice, and counseling. Just because one person got varied marks, we cannot denigrate the credentials of the complete system,” he said. "Every time we try to provide a solution, some will still go to court."

Will EWS students securing NRI and mgmt quota seats create a level playing field

Will EWS students securing NRI and mgmt quota seats create a level playing field

Rajlakshmi.Ghosh@timesofindia.com 16.12.2024

NEET PG admissions have sparked debates about fairness as some students from the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) are obtaining management and NRI quota seats in medical colleges. . , requiring them to pay course fees amounting to crores of rupees. However, experts argue that their admissions could be valid considering both Management and NRI quota seats fall under the unreserved category and are open to students from every stratum. Since EWS candidates are those who belong to families with an annual income of less than Rs 8 lakh, there is a murmur on how such candidates can pay a sizeable sum running into crores for their three-year PG degree course. 

Providing clarity 

Clearing doubts about the issue, a senior faculty from a medical college in Delhi-NCR, explains, “As per the norms, both management and NRI quota seats come under the unreserved category, hence these seats are open to EWS candidates, including those from the SC/ST categories, as per merit and choice. The problem arises when candidates claim to be from the EWS category during the application form-filling and later, at the time of reporting for counselling, opt for the NRI/management quota seats where the course fees are high. In such instances, a candidate's EWS certificate has no relevance. If aspirants are raising ethical concerns, they should take it up on a case-to-case basis with the college authorities offering admissions and the relevant administrative bodies, in this case, it is the tehsildar of the respective states that issues the EWS certificate. after the necessary verifications.”

 As per a media report, over 24,600 PG medical seats were allotted in the first round announced on November 20. Of these, 135 management quota seats in the private medical colleges and 8 NRI seats were allotted to candidates registered as EWS in clinical specialties of private medical colleges for which they need to pay tuition fees that could range anywhere between Rs 25 lakh to Rs 90 lakh per annum. It is important to note that the verification of credentials for students applying under the EWS category is typically handled at the state level or by individual colleges rather than directly by the NMC. The recent developments have generated concern regarding the mismatch in the admission process. Many aspiring medical students feel that those who may have wrongfully taken advantage of the EWS classification are undermining the opportunities meant for genuinely disadvantaged individuals.

Private medical colleges often prioritize profit generation, and management and NRI quota seats can command significantly higher fees than government quotas. This financial incentive may lead colleges to overlook regulations on EWS certification,” says Dr B Unnikrishnan, dean, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, MAHE.

A simple pill could soon cure diabetes, scientists reveal etimes.in

A simple pill could soon cure diabetes, scientists reveal etimes.in | Dec 13, 2024, 10.43 PM IST

Diabetes, a chronic disease that needs to be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, affects about 830 million people worldwide and is one of the fastest-growing illnesses globally. A groundbreaking breakthrough in diabetes research may soon transform its treatment for millions worldwide. Scientists are working on a revolutionary pill that could cure diabetes by addressing the root causes of the disease.

Researchers at Mount Sinai have moved one step forward in making this pill a reality which can reprogram the body to make insulin-producing cells again.

Diabetes develops when beta cells in the pancreas are not able to produce insulin, an essential hormone for blood sugar management. In both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, patients report a significant reduction in active insulin-producing beta cells. Until now, the medications are used to manage diabetes symptoms, but now researchers are looking for ways to replenish and revive these crucial beta cells that can start producing insulin again.

How Harmine can help regenerate insulin-producing cells

Back in 2015, the researchers at Mount Sinai identified harmine, a drug belonging to DYRK1A inhibitors, the compound capable of activating insulin-producing human beta cell regeneration.

Building on their earlier findings, the research team made significant progress in 2019 and 2020, discovering that harmine could work in synergy with GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide and exenatide to boost beta cell regeneration.

By July 2024, their studies revealed groundbreaking results: harmine alone increased human beta cell mass by 300%, and when paired with a GLP-1 receptor agonist like Ozempic, that growth skyrocketed to an impressive 700%.

In an exciting discovery, researchers found that alpha cells, another kind of pancreatic cell which are found in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, could potentially be transformed into insulin-producing beta cells.

“This is an exciting finding that shows harmine-family drugs may be able to induce lineage conversion in human pancreatic islets,” says Dr. Esra Karakose, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the study’s corresponding author, in a statement. “It may mean that people with all forms of diabetes have a large potential ‘reservoir’ for future beta cells, just waiting to be activated by drugs like harmine.”

How the experiment was carried out

Using single-cell RNA sequencing technology, researchers examined the genetic activity of more than 109,881 individual cells from human pancreatic islets donated by four adults. This advanced technique provided detailed insights, revealing that "cycling alpha cells" might have the ability to convert into insulin-producing beta cells. Since alpha cells are the most abundant cell type in pancreatic islets, they could become a crucial source for generating new beta cells if the transformation process can be effectively managed.

The Mount Sinai team is now set to move to human trials.

“A simple pill, perhaps together with a GLP1RA like semaglutide, is affordable and scalable to the millions of people with diabetes,” says Dr. Andrew F. Stewart, director of the Mount Sinai Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism Institute.

The study was published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine.

MBBS paper leaks real: Top MUHS officials

MBBS paper leaks real: Top MUHS officials 

Ranjan Dasgupta & Santosh Sonawane TNN 12.12.2024 

Nashik : The question paper leaks of pharmacology I and pathology II in the ongoing MBBS examination were genuine, top officials in Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) admitted on Wednesday. Over 7,900 students are appearing for the examination, and the two question papers leaked were meant for second-year MBBS students. MUHS came to know about the pharmacology I paper leak on Dec 2 after the exam was over. In the case of pathology II, the varsity learned about the leak hours before the exam began on Dec 9, and a new set of question papers was mailed to all the 50 centres. Printouts were handed over to the examinees instead of the original set of the question papers. “In both these cases, we were informed by students about the leaks. They mailed us screenshots of the questions that went viral on social media. They must have been distressed that the question paper was leaked and immediately informed us,” a senior MUHS official said. 

The varsity has decided to mail the question paper to the exam centres on the day of the exam for remaining exams, including the pharmacology I exam, which will be held again on Dec 19. The university has already lodged complaints against unidentified persons with Nashik city police about the leaks. It has also formed a probe team to ascertain who were involved in the leaks. MUHS insiders did not rule out the possibility of tampering with envelopes that had question papers sent to centres in private vehicles, which could have led to the leaks. “The tampering could have either taken place during transportation or at the exam centres...MUHS has asked the exam centre in-charges to return the envelopes... Experts will examine if there was any tampering,” the official said. 

MUHS vice-chancellor Lt Gen Dr Madhuri Kanitkar (retd) did not speak much on the issue. “The university has taken the paper leak issue seriously. The matter is being investigated both by the police and the university. We will go all out to find out how and who were involved in this

illegal activity,” she told TOI. Nashik city police commissioner Sandeep Karnik said their probe is progressing in the right direction

AIIMS doctors extract 9.2kg tumour from an ovarian cancer patient

AIIMS doctors extract 9.2kg tumour from an ovarian cancer patient 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 12.12.2024

New Delhi : Doctors at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) successfully performed a surgery to remove a 9.2-kg tumour from a 49-year-old woman with ovarian cancer, which is expected to increase her life expectancy remarkably. Without the surgical intervention, the patient would have survived about six months. Professor MD Ray of the department of onco surgery at AIIMS, explained that extracting a tumour of this size presented significant difficulties as multiple organs are affected, particularly the gastrointestinal and urinary systems. He said that the patient recovered well, with an anticipated survival extension of at least 10 years. After the Dec 2 surgery, she went home on Dec 9. 

Initially diagnosed with stage one granular cell tumor (GCT), a rare, slow-growing ovarian tumour originating from sex cord stromal cells, the woman underwent staging laparotomy in Dec 2011 at AIIMS Delhi's gynaecology department. Post-operative assessment confirmed stage I disease. After being under observation, the patient discontinued follow-up for five years. In 2016, she returned to the medical oncology clinic with symptomatic recurrence. A tumour mass excision was attempted in 2017 in the gynaecology department but remained incomplete due to complications. She then received six cycles of Paclit XL and Carbon Platinum chemotherapy, achieving 18 months of progression-free survival. Follow-up imaging revealed small abdominal and pelvic deposits, leading to conservative management under observation. The patient again discontinued follow-up for three years after the initial recurrence. She subsequently came to the Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (IRCH), AIIMS's facility, in Oct 2024, displaying severe symptoms including a substantial abdominal mass, pain, constipation, post-meal vomiting, dependence on a liquid diet and substantial weight reduction of 15 kg over three months. 

Dr Ray stressed that whilst some cancer patients discontinue follow-up care, consistent monitoring remains essential for disease management. The medical team noted several complications: poor performance status (scale two), severe anaemia (6 grams per decilitre haemoglobin), reduced albumin (2.8 grams per decilitre), and compression of vital structures including the urinary bladder, sigmoid colon and ureters. For such an advanced condition, chemotherapy and radiotherapy would serve only as palliative care. This treatment option would have been viable if the patient received care at a distant facility. However, in this recurring case, surgery remained the only potentially curative option. Such procedures are exclusively available at specialised hospitals with comprehensive oncological facilities and complete medical teams, including anaesthesia specialists. Dr Ray highlighted that patients should not consider any complex abdominal procedures, including those involving abdominal masses, relapses or recurring conditions, as inoperable.

Keep warm and eat safe, say docs as lung & GI cases surge

Keep warm and eat safe, say docs as lung & GI cases surge 

Pearl.D’ Souza@timesofindia.com 12.12.2024

Bengaluru : With patients coming in with diarrhoea or fever due to gastrointestinal (GI) infections from contaminated water and food or due to upper respiratory tract infections, city doctors have warned people against eating at unhygienic places or consuming uncooked food from outside, and asked them to maintain their body temperature. Dr Kamal Bhalla, consultant, internal medicine, Sagar Hospital, Kumaraswamy Layout, treats about 50 influenza cases in her out-patient department (OPD) each week, a five-fold increase from a month ago. “A lot of this is due to weather change. The sudden temperature differences can lead to viral illnesses. Unlike a mild cold and cough, flu has patients coming in with severe body pain and weakness to the extent that they even find it difficult to get up. Some also develop loose motions, although it is not a telltale sign of flu.” 

According to Dr Bhalla, those in their 20s and 30s, by virtue of going outside and exposing themselves, make up for a higher number of patients. “The infection is also more intense — we have several elderly, those with diabetes and smokers’ lungs come down with pneumonia. They should consider taking flu shots that will reduce severity and frequency of the infection,” she said. She also sees about 14 peo ple every week with GI infection, from what was barely two cases a week earlier. “We are seeing both bacterial and viral infections. Bacterial infections generally come with fever and abdominal pain, besides diarrhoea. You get it mainly from contaminated food or water,” she added. Dr Sudharshan K S, consultant pulmonologist, TriLife Hospital, says he has been seeing 120-150 cases of respiratory infections every week. “Two-three weeks ago, we would get 80 cases per week. These patients present with fever, myalgia, runny nose and nose block. There is not much increase in cases compared to 2023. The most-affected age categories are children and the  working population,” he pointed out. “When you have an infection, it is better to be indoors. Don’t consume cold things and isolate yourself,” he added. 

Dr Satyanarayana Mysore, chairman, HOD and consultant, pulmonology, lung transplant physician & sleep medicine specialist, Manipal Hospitals, Old Airport Road, is seeing a 10-20% surge in patients with respiratory infections. “The most common among these is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), followed by influenza A and B. A smaller number of cases of human metapneumovirus and adenovirus are also being observed at our centre. People across all age groups are affected, but air travellers are particularly at high risk,” he said. “Compared to last year, we are seeing more patients, which is likely due to the weather and surge in RSV cases. RSV has caused issues in other parts of the world, including the US. Respiratory infections like RSV or influenza cause fever, cough, breathlessness and wheezing,” he explained.

CAG finds lapses in functioning of TNMSC

 CAG finds lapses in functioning of TNMSC

The Hindu Bureau  11.12.2024

CHENNAI

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has found several deficiencies in the functioning of the Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation (TNMSC).

In its report tabled in the Assembly on Tuesday, the CAG highlighted issues of non-supply/short supply of drugs to hospitals, deficiencies such as procuring of short-expiry drugs and non-blacklisting of suppliers, and problems in quality control (QC).

The CAG’s performance audit on ‘Public Health Infrastructure and Management of Health Services’ pointed out that during 2016-2021, 185 suppliers provided 1,447 drugs, manufactured much earlier than 30 days before the date of supply.

Audit scrutiny revealed that such drugs costing ₹11.12 crore had expired while in stock during 2016-2021. It noted that the suppliers had replaced the expired items only in 13 instances, of which 10 were during 2020-2021 or later.

The audit observed that during 2016-2021, in 13,922 cases, drugs lying in warehouses for over six months were not sent for quality testing. During the same period, in 19 instances, drugs supplied by different suppliers failed quality check in government laboratories more than two times. Suppliers were not blacklisted in 14 instances.

While the TNMSC replied that suppliers were not blacklisted as penalty was imposed instead, the audit said that instances of failures in quality testing were very high.

NMC to impose penalties, reduce seats of med colleges that refuse to pay stipends

NMC to impose penalties, reduce seats of med colleges that refuse to pay stipends

There are plans to begin inspecting colleges regarding stipend non-payment and other related issues

 Ayushi.Gupta1@timesofindia.com 09.12.2024

The National Medical Commission (NMC) issued show-cause notices to 198 medical colleges— 115 government and 83 private—over the non-submission of stipend details for Undergraduate (UG) interns, Postgraduate (PG) residents, and senior residents in super specialities for the financial year 2023-24. Several medical interns and resident doctors have complained about not receiving any stipend money or half the amount promised. NMC is reviewing the details submitted by medical colleges and plans to impose penalties once confirmed that the stipends are being withheld

College inspections 

Following a Supreme Court order, the NMC directed all medical colleges and health institutions to submit details of stipends paid to medical interns and postgraduate resident doctors in 2023- 24. Dr B Srinivas, secretary, NMC, says, “The NMC aims to analyse stipend data submitted by colleges across the country. The purpose of collecting this data is to track the functioning of these institutions. The NMC plans to begin inspecting colleges regarding stipend non-payment and other related issues. If sufficient evidence of non-payment is found, the NMC will impose financial penalties on the offending colleges. For habitual offenders, further actions may include reducing the total number of seats allocated to the institution. A robust feedback mechanism is essential to make these inspections more effective.” 

Several residents and interns, speaking on the condition of anonymity, have shared their grievances with Education Times. A resident doctor completing his PG at Pacific Medical College and Hospital in Udaipur, Rajasthan, said, “The quoted stipend for all resident doctors is Rs 75,000, but none of the 390 residents have received the entire amount. We requested the administration to disburse the stipends to pay our hostel fees and other expenses, but no action has been taken. Additionally, all residents were asked to pay the full fee during the first year and sign an affidavit stating that our stipends had already been adjusted against the fees. We have been warned not to reveal this information, or we could be failed in our exams.” 

A female MBBS graduate from NRI Institute of Medical Sciences in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, added, “I graduated in 2024, and despite completing my internship, most of our batchmates including me have not received our stipends for the internship period. The college management has failed to disburse the stipend citing financial constraints. We request NMC to take immediate action.” Another MBBS intern at Dr Vasantrao Pawar Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre in Nashik, Maharashtra, said, “I have not received my stipend since September. Until then, I received only Rs 8,000 as against Rs 18,000. I am shocked to find that my college’s name was not included in the NMC’s list of 198 colleges receiving show-cause notices.” 

A PG resident doctor at Shridevi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Hospital in Tumkur, Karnataka, said, “I paid around Rs 2 lakh for hostel fees, which was made compulsory for all PG residents. I had to take a loan to pay both the hostel and college fees, which I planned to repay using my stipend but the college has not paid us any money. If I speak out, I fear my career will be sabotaged.” 

NMC has received multiple anonymous complaints regarding non-payment of stipends. Dr Srinivas says, “ The scope of investigations is often discreet and focused on gathering evidence without directly confronting individuals. Understandably, revealing names could jeopardise the careers of complainants. However, if multiple complaints are received from a particular college, the NMC will red-flag the institution and initiate a thorough investigation. However, support from students and faculty members is crucial for successful investigations.” 

Survey findings  In 2023, NMC conducted an online survey which revealed that 27% of PG students at private or self-financed medical colleges are not paid any stipend. Additionally, 54% of PG students receive less than the stipend amount paid to their counterparts in government-run medical colleges. The  survey found that among 7,901 PG students from 213 self-financed/private medical colleges across 19 states, about 16% reported being forced to return their stipend money to college management. Dr Srinivas says, “As the NMC transitions to more digital processes, it aims to simplify monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. An online system will make it easier to identify and address malpractices, ensuring greater accountability among medical colleges.”

NMC unveils norms to spot fake patients during college audits

NMC unveils norms to spot fake patients during college audits

DurgeshNandan.Jha@timesofindia.com  09.12.2024

New Delhi : Every year, on a specific day, some hospitals affiliated with medical colleges admit healthy individuals as patients. This trick is employed to deceive inspection teams that come to assess the facilities for granting approval to establish a new medical college or to increase the number of MBBS seats in an existing one. In many cases, the hospitals succeed in their deception. Recently, there have been multiple recorded instances of medical colleges hiring fake or nonserious patients to meet the minimum standards required for grant of a license to operate or to increase the number of MBBS seats. 

Recognising this problem, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has, for the first time, issued detailed guidelines on how to identify fake patients. The NMC guidelines state that if the assessor observes a large number of patients admitted on the day of assessment or the previous day, it could indicate fake admissions. Similarly, if the admitted patients have ailments that can be treated in the outpatient department (OPD) with oral medications, those should also be considered fake admissions.

Another criterion described by the NMC to identify fake or ghost patients is admission without any evidence of investigations, such as X-rays, blood tests, etc., either before or after admission. In pediatric wards, the NMC guidelines add that fake patients can be identified if assessors find that most of the admitted children are playful and cheerful without any significant medical issues. Recently, such an instance was recorded when a medical college in Maharashtra applied to increase its intake of MBBS students from 100 to 150. The assessors found that all the patients admitted to the pediatric ward were “hale and hearty”. 

The NMC guidelines also say that admission of multiple patients from the same family, or those admitted in large numbers through preventive health checkups/camps may also be identified as fake patients.

It has been observed for a long time that some medical institutions/colleges indulge in admitting fake patients (people who do not require any in-patient treatment) to fulfil the requirement of bed occupancy, investigation, etc. “If the assessor makes the abovementioned observations in their remarks, it will be considered as indulgence of the institution in ‘fake patient practice’ which will be considered as a serious violation,” said an NMC official.

National Medical Commission mandates strict scrutiny of ‘fake patients’ before sanctioning new medical colleges or enhancing seats

National Medical Commission mandates strict scrutiny of ‘fake patients’ before sanctioning new medical colleges or enhancing seats

It has been observed that some medical colleges show people who do not require any treatment as ‘patients’ fulfil the requirement of bed occupancy

Published - December 08, 2024 12:29 pm IST - Bengaluru

Jayanth R.

The NMC has released the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) guidelines for evaluation of medical college/institutions 2024. 

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has ordered strict scrutiny of “fake patients” shown by the managements during physical assessment/inspection before sanctioning of new medical colleges or allowing increase in the number of Under Graduate (UG) and Post Graduate (PG) medical seats.

NMC has invited applications for establishment of new medical colleges intending to offer undergraduate course and increase in the number of PG and UG seats for the academic year 2025-2026. It has released the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) guidelines for evaluation of medical college/institutions 2024

What the guidelines say

In the MARB guidelines, the NMC has stressed the need to curb the practice of showing “fake patients” in the medical colleges. For the purpose of training students, a certain minimum clinical exposure of patients has been defined in the Minimum Standards of Requirements (MSR) criteria of UG and PG Board in the form of bed occupancy requirements etc.

However, it has been observed that some medical institution/colleges show fake patients (persons who do not require any treatment at all or in-patient treatment) to fulfil the requirement of bed occupancy, investigation, etc. The guidelines say that if the assessor notices this and makes a remark, “it will be considered as indulgence of institution in ‘fake patient practice’ which will be considered as a serious violation and it will invite punishment as per MARB rules,” reads the guideline.

Therefore, NMC has instructed all the assessors that observation as to whether a large number of patients were admitted on the day of assessment or the previous day is a must.

Further, it said that it should be examined whether such recently or previously admitted patients have no minor or insignificant ailments/problems which can be treated on Outpatient (OPD) basis with oral medications.

Patients who are admitted without any evidence of investigations like X-ray, blood tests etc., (before or after admission) or treatment which is generally done for admitted patients like intravenous fluid, injections, catheterisation, giving medicines etc should be noted. It should be observed whether in paediatric ward, “most of the admitted children were playful and joyous without any significant problem.”

From the same family?

Further, it stated that the observation of assessor/s on whether multiple patients from the same family were admitted and whether patients were admitted in large numbers through preventive health check-ups/camps is also a must.

The NMC’s guidelines also stressed that the attendance of the faculty and other staff should be reviewed from time to time. “The required number of faculties as mentioned in MSR guidelines of respective boards (UG or PG) should be available throughout the year and for any given period of time. As it is a minimum requirement document, no relaxation will be permitted except in special circumstances in the larger interest by following due procedures,” it added.

Will abide by rules

Speaking to The Hindu, Dr. B.L. Sujatha Rathod, Director of the Directorate of Medical Education, said that NMC is the regulatory authority and the State is the implementing authority. “Whatever the regulations are, it will be examined and put into action,” she said.

HC acquits doctor convicted for raping woman colleague

HC acquits doctor convicted for raping woman colleague 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 07.12.2024

Chennai : Madras high court has accorded the benefit of doubt and acquitted a practising doctor convicted by a trial court for raping a woman doctor while they were housed at a city hotel during Covid pandemic. The trial court had on Dec 30, 2022 imposed 10-year RI on Dr Vetriselvan and fined him ₹25,000. However, allowing his appeal on Nov 25, Justice Sunder Mohan held there were many infirmities and said: “This court is of the view that the appellant cannot be convicted on the basis of such evidence and that he will be entitled to benefit of doubt.”

The woman-doctor had alleged that on Aug 5, 2021, while she and Dr Vetriselvan were on Covid duty and lodged at a city hotel, he invited her to his room where he raped her. The defence, however, argued that the allegation of rape was an afterthought because though the incident took place on Aug 5, 2021, a complaint to the dean was given on Sept 21 and FIR filed only on Nov 17. In her complaint to the dean, the woman mentioned only sexual harassment and no rape. “She being a doctor, it cannot be said that she did not know the difference between sexual harassment and rape,” argued senior counsel A Ramesh. 

She also did not subject herself to medical examination and told the magistrate she did not wish to precipitate the matter. Citing all this, Justice Sunder Mohan said, “In the complaint, apart from not referring to any alleged act of rape, the victim would state that the incident took place at her accommodation at the hotel, which is contrary to the prosecution case that the incident took place in the appellant’s room.” While a complaint was given to the dean 43 days after the incident, a police complaint was lodged two months after the complaint in which an improved version was made, said the judge.

The judge then set aside the trial court order and directed the authorities to return the fine amount to the appellant.

India doubles medical colleges, MBBS seats rise by 130%, PG seats by 135%

India doubles medical colleges, MBBS seats rise by 130%, PG seats by 135%

The government has reported a 102% rise in medical colleges with a 130% growth in MBBS seats and 135% growth in PG seats since 2014, boosting healthcare infrastructure across India and surpassing WHO standards in the doctor-to-population ratio.

The government has reported a 102% rise in medical colleges with a 130% growth in MBBS seats and 135% growth in PG seats since 2014, boosting healthcare infrastructure across India and surpassing WHO standards in doctor-to-population ratio.

India Today Education Desk

New Delhi,UPDATED: Dec 5, 2024 21:16 IST

In ShortIndia now has 780 medical colleges, up from 387 in 2014

MBBS seats increased by 130%, from 51,348 to 1,18,137

Doctor-to-population ratio improves to 1:811, exceeding WHO standards

The Indian government has reported a remarkable 102% increase in medical colleges and a 130% rise in MBBS seats since 2014, aiming to strengthen healthcare access and meet global standards.

India now has 780 medical colleges compared to 387 in 2014, reflecting a 102% surge, Union Health Minister JP Nadda informed the Lok Sabha last week.

MBBS seats have also soared from 51,348 in 2014 to 1,18,137 in 2024, a 130% jump. This significant growth is attributed to policies encouraging the establishment of new colleges and the expansion of existing ones.

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PG seats have risen by 135%, from 31,185 in 2014 to 73,157 in 2024.

STATES MAKING BIG STRIDES

Several states saw major progress in their medical education infrastructure. Uttar Pradesh now leads with 86 medical colleges, up from 30 in 2014, and has expanded its MBBS seats from 3,749 to 12,425.

Karnataka has 73 colleges, Maharashtra increased its count from 44 to 80, and Rajasthan rose from 10 colleges to 43.

Telangana, which had no medical colleges in 2013-14, now boasts 65 colleges and 9,040 MBBS seats.

Tamil Nadu added 5,835 MBBS seats, reaching a total of 12,050. Smaller states and UTs, such as Nagaland and Mizoram, opened their first medical colleges, while Telangana stands out with exponential growth.

INDIA SURPASSES WHO STANDARDS

India's doctor-to-population ratio is now 1:811, surpassing the World Health Organization’s standard of 1:1000.

This improvement is due to the combined efforts of increased MBBS and postgraduate (PG) seats.

The government’s initiatives include upgrading district hospitals into medical colleges and establishing new AIIMS. Of the 157 approved medical colleges, 131 are functional. Additionally, 19 out of 22 new AIIMS have begun undergraduate courses.

Efforts to tackle faculty shortages include recognising DNB qualifications and raising the retirement age of faculty to 70 years.

Miracle survival: 840gm preterm baby thrives after 80 days in NICU

Miracle survival: 840gm preterm baby thrives after 80 days in NICU 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK  05.12.2024 

In a groundbreaking case in north Karnataka, a preterm infant weighing 840 grams, delivered at 25 weeks (six months of pregnancy), survived after receiving 80 days of specialised care, said Dr Marthandappa DH of Sparsham Children Hospital, Hubballi. Speaking to reporters in Hubballi Thursday, he said this case represents one of the earliest surviving premature births by gestational age in north Karnataka region.

The male infant was delivered in Sept 2024, following complications of cervi cal incompetence and premature rupture of membranes, which was managed by obstetrician Dr Seema Bhayiri. The infant initially experienced considerable difficulties due to incomplete development of vital organs, including the lungs, brain, gut, and skin. “The baby was placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation for several days before being weaned to be given continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) support for 30 days,” he said. “Kangaroo mother care even on CPAP, nutritional aspects with colostrum painting, and other supportive measures were provided and gradually the baby began to breastfeed,” he added. 

After 80 days in the NICU, the infant was discharged on Nov 25, reaching a weight of 1.6kg. Infants born before 28 weeks are classified as ‘micropremies’ and their survival presents significant challenges, requiring careful recreation of womb-like conditions in NICU with minimal light and sound exposure, he added.

Consider doc’s deputation plea for higher studies: HC

Consider doc’s deputation plea for higher studies: HC 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 5.12.2024

Bengaluru : The HC recently said the govt should consider, in a time-bound manner, its employees’ representation seeking permission to take up higher studies. Dr Madhu Kumar MH, a specialist physician working in Mysuru, submitted a request last year. Based on his merit ranking in NEETSS 2023, the medical counselling committee (MCC), DGHS, ministry of health and family welfare, govt of India, allotted him a seat in DNB SS cardiology programme. This is a three-year super-specialty course in medical science at Apollo BGS Hospital, Mysuru. 

The commissioner for health and family welfare services submitted a recommendation dated April 3 to govt to consider his representation for sanction of study leave so that he could complete the course and return after making value addition. The recommendation also cited the need for undergoing the course as there was a dearth of doctors in the department with superspecialty degrees. The said representation wasn’t considered despite the recommendation, so Madhu Kumar moved Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal (KSAT).

On Aug 9, the tribunal granted him relief and directed the govt to consider his representation for permission to go on deputation for higher studies. The state challenged the same before the high court. A division bench of Justices Krishna S Dixit and CM Joshi pointed out that KCSR Rules give discretion to the govt to send its employees on deputation for pursuing special courses such as higher studies, specialised training in professional/technical subjects having a direct and close connection with the sphere of his/her duty. However, as with any discretion, this has to be exercised according to rules of reason and justice, the bench added. 

The bench rejected the govt’s contention that after making value addition, deputationists may quit public employment and go for greener pastures, causing loss to the exchequer. It said the 

employee concerned has to execute a bond, adding: “After all, ours is a constitutionally ordained welfare state and therefore, it has to conduct itself as a model employer.”

Dr Sanjay Patolia arrested for angioplasty deaths, fraud

Dr Sanjay Patolia arrested for angioplasty deaths, fraud 

KHYATI CASE TIMES NEWS NETWORK  05.12.2024

Ahmedabad : City crime branch on Wednesday arrested Dr Sanjay Patolia, a senior medical professional and director of Khyati Hospital, in connection with two angioplasty deaths at the hospital on Nov 11. Patolia was taken into custody hours after a local court rejected his anticipatory bail plea on Tuesday. 

A complaint was registered against Patolia and the other accused on Nov 13, two days after two patients from Borisana village in Mehsana died under suspicious circumstances after angioplasty at the Bodakdev hospital. The autopsy report states they died following cardiac arrest after the procedure. 

The hospital is accused of conducting unnecessary medical procedures to avail benefits under Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). Investigation found that three more patients had died at the hospital in a similar manner in the recent past. According to police sources, Patolia, a resident of Altius-3 Apartments on Sindhu Bhavan Road, had gone to meet a doctor friend near Silver Oak University in Gota during the early hours of Wednesday when he was arrested. 

After the Nov 11 deaths brought Khyati Hospital under scanner, Patolia went to his New Life Hospital in Raj kot and spent the night there. On Nov 13, when he learned that an offence had been registered in the case, he left his car in the compound of the Rajkot hospital, switched off his mobile and fled to Udaipur by bus. After reaching Udaipur on Nov 15, Patolia used public transport to travel to Nathdwara, Ajmer, Pali, Jaipur and Delhi and stayed in hotels to evade arrest. Wednesday’s development has taken the total number of arrests in the case to seven. The six others arrested earlier are hospital director (marketing and branding) Chirag Rajput, CEO Rahul Jain and three members of the  marketing team — Milind Patel, Pratik Bhatt and Pankil Patel. Kartik Patel, the owner of Khyati Hospital and a co-accused in the case, is in Dubai. He had filed a plea for anticipatory bail through his relative at Ahmedabad district court. They have been accused of culpable homicide and hatching criminal conspiracy to fraudulently obtain funds from PM-JAY. 

A long career from teaching to hospital mgmt 

Ahmedabad : Dr Sanjay Patolia is the founder of Ahmedabad Bariatrics Hospital. In 2021 and one of the directors of Khyati Hospital. According to sources, he recruited doctors, managed the setting up of new departments at the hospital and made all the treatment-related decisions. He worked as assistant professor at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Medical College in Rajkot from 1999 to 2002. He was with Sardar Patel Hospital in Rajkot from 2003 to 2006. In 2012, Patolia, along with Dr Mahendra Narvariya and Dr Manish Khetan, started group practice in Ahmedabad under the name Ahmedabad Bariatrics and Cosmetic Pvt. Ltd, with Asian Bariatrics Hospital as the trade name. From 2012 to 2014, he practised at Asian Bariatrics Hospital for one to two days a week and the rest of the days in Rajkot. From 2014, he began practising full-time at the hospital. In 2016, Dr Khetan left the hospital. In 2021, after Dr Narvariya too left, Kartik Patel, Pradip Kothari and Chirag Rajput joined as partners. Patolia serves as a full-time doctor in the bariatrics department at Khyati Hospital, while his wife, Dr Hetal Patolia, is a fulltime doctor in the gynaecology department.