ICMR starts revising the current National Essential Diagnostics List for the first time

Syllabus: GS-III

Subject: Economic Development

Topic: Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.

Context: ICMR Initiates First Revision of National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL).

Issue: Revision of National Essential Diagnostics List

Synopsis:

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) begins the revision process for the NEDL, emphasizing the need to update since its 2019 release.

• Stakeholders are encouraged to consider essentiality, disease burden, alignment with public health standards, and cost-effectiveness when proposing changes to the NEDL. And suggest additions or deletions to the NEDL by the end of February, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive review.

• The NEDL identifies fundamental diagnostic tests crucial at various healthcare facility levels, promoting accessibility across the healthcare system.

• In response to a 2018 World Health Organisation recommendation, ICMR released India’s first NEDL in 2019, marking a significant step towards integrated healthcare diagnostics.

• Essential diagnostic tests should address high disease burden, with clear impacts on disease diagnosis and management, aligning with Indian Public Health Standards.

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Background:

Conclusion: The revision process aims to ensures the NEDL stays current with evolving healthcare requirements and technological advancements.

Source: The Hindu