NITI Aayog Panel to Drive AIIMS Modernization

NITI Aayog, the Indian government’s premier think tank, has established a committee to devise a roadmap for transforming AIIMS, New Delhi, into a world-class institution for medical research and healthcare excellence. Led by NITI Aayog member VK Paul, the committee will analyze current systems and propose reforms with specific timelines for their implementation. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance healthcare infrastructure, governance, and self-sufficiency in AIIMS.

Additionally, NITI Aayog has been working on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and rare disease treatment affordability, partnering with CSEP Research Foundation to examine global UHC models. It has also facilitated the indigenous production of affordable drugs for rare diseases, significantly reducing treatment costs.

Key Highlights of AIIMS Transformation Panel

Committee Formation

• Led by VK Paul, focusing on AIIMS New Delhi’s transformation.

Objectives

• Assess current systems & propose reforms with clear timelines.
• Improve patient inflow management and hospital governance.
• Develop Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for clinical, academic, and research excellence.
• Enhance financial prudence & sustainability in AIIMS operations.

Focus Areas

• Governance & transparency.
• Research excellence.
• Clinical & academic improvements.
• Self-sufficiency & financial sustainability.

NITI Aayog’s Efforts on Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

• Partnership with CSEP Research Foundation to study global UHC models.

Draft paper on healthcare financing strategies,

• Addresses supply-side & demand-side financing.
• Aims to improve healthcare accessibility, quality, and affordability.
• Extensive government & stakeholder consultations planned to shape policies.

Rare Disease Drug Accessibility Initiative

• Effort to provide affordable indigenous treatments for rare diseases.
• 4 affordable drugs introduced, priced at 1/60th to 1/100th of imported versions.
• 4 more drugs undergoing regulatory approval, expected to launch by year-end.