Bengaluru, Aug 6 (NationPress) Karnataka's Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has addressed Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda in a letter on Wednesday, justifying the state's decision to close the Jan Aushadhi Centres situated within government hospitals. He has also requested that the Centre provide medicines to the state's health department at the same rates offered to Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

In his correspondence, Minister Rao noted, "According to the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pari Yojana (PMBJP), the prices of Jan Aushadhi medicines are significantly lower, between 50% to 80%, compared to branded medications available in the market. This initiative is overseen by a society registered under the Societies Registration Act, known as the Pharma and Medical Bureau of India (PMBI)."

He further requested, "We urge that the same rates be applied for supplies to the state health department, as this will greatly assist in providing free drug supply in Karnataka’s government hospitals under the Health and Family Welfare department."

Minister Rao acknowledged the receipt of a letter addressed to the Chief Minister regarding the closure of Jan Aushadhi Kendra's (JAKs) in Karnataka's government hospital premises and appreciated the concern for public access to affordable, quality medications.

"I wish to clarify that Karnataka has ensured the free provision of all essential medicines, as per the Essential Medicines List (EML), across all government healthcare facilities. However, this decision does not hinder the operation of Jan Aushadhi Kendras outside government premises, allowing citizens to access them in private establishments as per their preference," he stated.

Karnataka is among the leading states in the country, with over 1,417 Jan Aushadhi Kendras operating statewide. Out of these, only 184 are located within government hospital premises, with the remainder functioning independently.

This strategic decision aims to reduce the financial burden on patients who frequently purchase medications from pharmacies. It is particularly beneficial for low-income and marginalized individuals who primarily seek healthcare services at government hospitals, as asserted by Minister Rao.

"We are dedicated to providing optimal access to affordable, quality healthcare for all Karnataka residents and are continuously enhancing our medicine supply chain, availability, and responsible usage within the public health system," he stated.

"We appreciate your commitment to public health and reaffirm our mutual dedication to improving the welfare of the populace," he added.

Government hospitals consistently receive all necessary medications via the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited. Furthermore, hospitals have been allocated adequate funding and instructed to procure drugs locally in case of any shortages, ensuring universal access to essential medications at no cost for patients using government facilities.

In this context, the decision to eliminate Jan Aushadhi Kendras within governmental premises is aimed at preventing any referrals of patients to commercial pharmacies, thereby safeguarding their access to guaranteed free medications, Minister Rao concluded.