Mumbai, March 23 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Minister for Public Health and Family Welfare, Prakash Abitkar, announced on Monday during the Legislative Assembly's Question Hour that an investigation will be initiated, and appropriate measures will be taken against hospitals enrolled in the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) and Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) if they do not deliver free medical treatment.

This declaration was made in response to inquiries from assembly member Abhijit Patil.

Minister Abitkar highlighted that these programs are ambitious state efforts designed to ensure that common citizens receive free medical care. He guaranteed that the government would act on any complaints received regarding these initiatives.

He further stressed that the administration is dedicated to ensuring that free healthcare services effectively reach the citizens who need them most, in a transparent manner.

Assembly members Atul Bhatkhalkar, Sanjay Kelkar, and Yogesh Sagar contributed to the discussion by posing additional questions.

In response to another inquiry from member Gopichand Padalkar about the 108 ambulance service, Minister Abitkar assured that high-quality healthcare is being made accessible to citizens through the 108 (toll-free) ambulance service.

He informed the Assembly that, addressing complaints related to this service, technical issues are being resolved, and 1,737 new 108 ambulances will soon be introduced across the state, considering the increasing population.

Minister Abitkar explained that this service is managed by contracted agencies, and it is essential for these agencies to adhere to the Minimum Wages Act and ensure proper salaries for their staff. He warned that the government would take action if any violations are detected.

To address complaints, the state government has formed an inquiry committee to review the 108 ambulance service. Efforts are ongoing to enhance the service's speed and efficiency by rectifying identified shortcomings. The inquiry report is nearing completion, and necessary measures will be taken once it is received. Assembly members Sharad Sonawane, Rajesh Pawar, and Bhaskar Jadhav also raised supplementary questions.

Additionally, in reply to a question from member Nana Patole, Minister Abitkar disclosed that a new staffing framework is being developed for the Health Department, with phased recruitment for various positions.

He stated that procedures are being followed where work is currently conducted on a contractual basis. Approximately 10,000 employees are engaged under the National Health Mission (NHM), and decisions regarding their services are being made. Many Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ employees are on a contractual basis, and any grievances related to their salaries or rights will be treated seriously.

He emphasized that the focus will remain on safeguarding the rights of contracted employees while improving service effectiveness. Members Hemant Ogale and Bhaskar Jadhav also posed additional questions.