Pune: PMC to Open Generic Medical Stores at Municipal Hospitals and Maternity Centres
Pune, 2nd June 2024: The Maharashtra state government has launched a scheme to establish generic medical stores at all civic-run hospitals and maternity centers. As part of this initiative, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) will soon open 19 generic medical stores at its maternity centers and outpatient departments (OPDs), offering a wide range of medicines at Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) rates.
Approved in the PMC’s 2024-25 budget, the implementation of this plan is expected to begin within the next two months. Dr. Sanjeev Wavare, Assistant Health Officer at PMC, stated, “All kinds of medicines, from generic diabetes medications to the most expensive anti-cancer drugs, will be available at prices below CGHS costs. The medicines will be offered at a discount of up to 10%, facilitated by a private agency already finalized by the state government. This agency will manage the stores.”
The PMC will provide space for these medical stores, with the managing agency paying rent to the PMC. “This initiative will greatly benefit patients who cannot afford expensive branded medications or require long-term treatments,” Dr. Wavare added.
The new stores aim to make essential medicines more accessible and affordable, ensuring that more patients can receive the necessary treatment without financial strain.
