The Paramedical Council of India (PCI) defines a 'paramedic' as someone who provides healthcare services in an auxiliary capacity to the physician. Paramedics are trained medical technicians who are certified to provide a wide range of emergency medical services.
Healthcare professionals required
WHO recommends one doctor per 1000 people and against the same, India has one doctor per 10,189 people. The estimated shortage of doctors in India is 600,000 and that of nurses is two million (one nurse for every 670 people against the WHO recommended ratio of 1:300). The pandemic has intensified the pressure on the system and there is an urgent need for more trained healthcare professionals.
Efforts are being taken
Venkaiah Nadu, Vice President of India, understands the critical situation and is pushing for increased public spending on healthcare to achieve the goal of 'health for all. Taking steps in this direction, he has called for the setting up of one medical college and hospital in every district of the country. As per a study by CDDEP (Center for Disease Dynamic Economics & Policy), two-thirds of health expenditure in India is from the pocket due to which around 57 million people are pushed into poverty every year.
Career options
Paramedics offer a fulfilling career with all the perquisites of a good income and career growth. Career options include medical lab technicians, operation theatre technicians, hospital administration healthcare professionals, dialysis technicians, X-Ray technicians, emergency medical technicians, medical trainers, medical content writers, sales representatives, etc.
Bright prospects
The Healthcare industry is the only recession-proof industry and by this virtue, paramedical professionals do have a secured and progressive career path. Today, India is one of the biggest countries to provide superior diagnostic services mixed with advanced diagnostic facilities. Also, India is a preferred destination for affordable yet first-rate medical treatments. According to India Brand Equity Foundation, the healthcare and paramedical industry in India is experiencing an annual growth of 22-25%, which is expected to double in the coming years. This combined with major initiatives and planned government spending promises a bright future for the healthcare industry and professionals. (The author is director, medical compliances, Mangalayatan University)
Published on:- Time of India
Date:- 07/02/2022
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