Panaji, Goa: The BJP Goa State Medical Cell convened a brainstorming session on healthcare policy and regulatory reforms at the BJP Goa State Office under the chairmanship of Shri Siddharth Kunkolikar, Goa Pradesh General Secretary. The meeting brought together medical professionals and policy experts to deliberate on measures aimed at strengthening Goa’s healthcare ecosystem through governance reforms, regulatory simplification, and workforce development.
The meeting was attended by Convenor Dr. Shekhar Salkar, along with Dr. Shailesh Kamat, Dr. Sonia Kanekar, Dr. Pratista Cuncolincar, Dr. Devdutt Sail, Dr. Jyoti Sawant, and invitee Dr. Rajesh Bhat.
One of the key proposals discussed was the establishment of a Single-Window Clearance System for medical establishments. Members highlighted the need to simplify licensing and approval procedures for hospitals, clinics, dental practices, diagnostic centres, and other healthcare facilities by integrating approvals from multiple government departments through a unified digital platform. The Medical Cell resolved to engage with Goa Electronics Limited (GEL) and other concerned departments to examine the technical feasibility of implementing the system.
The meeting also focused on the service conditions of healthcare personnel working under the National Health Mission (NHM) and the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), including AYUSH Medical Officers and other contractual employees. Members stressed the importance of equitable service conditions, strengthening the public healthcare workforce, and examining practical mechanisms for regularisation. The Cell decided to study existing policies before submitting recommendations to the Government.
Another significant issue discussed was the need to improve sick leave provisions for school teachers, particularly those diagnosed with critical illnesses such as cancer. Members suggested reviewing the current leave policy to ensure teachers receive adequate medical leave during treatment and recovery. The Cell also proposed examining preventive healthcare initiatives, including periodic health screening programmes for educators.
The Medical Cell further reviewed the Goa Clinical Establishments Act, discussing the practical challenges healthcare providers face in complying with existing regulations. Members agreed that certain provisions require revision to better align with Goa’s evolving healthcare landscape while ensuring patient safety and quality standards. The Cell resolved to consult medical associations and other stakeholders before recommending amendments.
Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Convenor of the BJP Goa State Medical Cell, said the discussions reflected the Cell’s commitment to promoting practical, transparent, and patient-centric healthcare reforms.
“Simplifying regulatory procedures, strengthening the healthcare workforce, promoting preventive healthcare, and modernising the regulatory framework will contribute significantly to improving healthcare delivery across Goa,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to work closely with the Government of Goa, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders to translate the recommendations into actionable policy initiatives aimed at benefiting both healthcare providers and the people of Goa.
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