Gandhinagar, March 7 (NationPress) The quantity of free medicines and surgical supplies available in Gujarat's government hospitals has seen a remarkable increase, rising from 717 to 1,479 over the past two years. This surge follows the incorporation of 150 additional drugs into the state's Essential Drugs List (EDL).

In response to this development on Saturday, Dr. Anil Patel, the state BJP chief spokesperson, remarked that the state Health Department's expansion of the list has significantly broadened the selection of medications accessible to patients at government healthcare facilities throughout Gujarat.

"This increase signifies the state government's commitment to enhancing treatment availability for individuals in both rural and urban regions. Just two years ago, a mere 717 essential drugs were offered free of charge in Gujarat. The addition of 150 new medications has now doubled this figure to 1,479," he stated.

Dr. Patel noted that the medicines and surgical items listed in the EDL will be provided at no cost to patients at primary health centers, civil hospitals, and government medical college-affiliated hospitals statewide.

He emphasized that this initiative aims to guarantee that individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can receive treatment without facing financial burdens.

"The administration led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is dedicated to delivering quality healthcare directly to villagers, the underprivileged, farmers, and the middle class," he asserted.

Dr. Patel further explained that the list's expansion includes medications for treating severe and chronic conditions.

"By incorporating drugs for critical and long-term illnesses such as heart diseases, cancer, neurological disorders, and mental health issues into the EDL, the government has alleviated the financial strain on middle-class and low-income families," he added.

Additionally, he stated that the inclusion of more anti-infective medications, respiratory treatments, and medical devices underscores the government's focus on enhancing treatment facilities within public hospitals.

"The state government is committed to providing the most modern and effective treatment options for patients," he remarked.

He also pointed out that the health department conducts an annual review of the drugs formulary to ensure it remains current and responsive to changing medical needs.

"The practice of annually reviewing and updating the drugs formulary in line with contemporary requirements is commendable," he concluded.