Can qualified paramedics share the burden of doctors

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Pursuing a career in allied healthcare sections like paramedic enables individuals to meet the growing demand for healthcare needs and specialty services. There are various authorised and reputable allied health colleges in India that provide courses and programmes in a wide range of subjects. Several of them are linked to the government’s National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Bill, 2020, and their relevant state councils. Based on this, public and private healthcare organisations prioritise training healthcare professionals to address public health concerns, serve rural and underserved populations, and concentrate on public health needs and interventions. They allow for innovation and flexibility in response to changing healthcare needs. Here are reasons why a career in allied health sciences can be beneficial not just for the candidate but for society too.

Alternative career choice: Approximately 20.87 lakh students in India took the NEET Exam in 2023, to work in healthcare and related businesses. However, there are only 1.01 lakh+ MBBS seats in India, according to last year’s data. Those interested in serving society at large as part of the medical fraternity can opt for a career in allied health care and work as second-line doctors. The current demand and supply gap for doctors can only be bridged by paramedics as these allied health personnel play a significant role in diagnosis, patient care and public health.

Backbone of healthcare industry: There is an increase in demand for specialised healthcare services, implying that paramedics are making a big difference in the lives of patients as a support system for doctors. Paramedics play a vital role in improving healthcare delivery and ensuring the seamless operation of the healthcare system. As the healthcare industry grows and evolves, there is an increased demand for qualified professionals to support and supplement physicians and doctors in not only hospitals but also local clinics.

Exploring opportunities: While medical professionals diagnose and establish treatment plans, paramedical professionals are responsible for administering therapies, providing patient care, and assisting medical professionals with their responsibilities. They can evaluate and treat patients in the hospital’s authorised emergency department. Paramedics include health care assistants, lab technicians, therapists, sanitarians, technologists, and emergency assistants, all of whom hold a diploma or degree in the relevant profession.

Multiple choices: An allied health career in India provides a variety of opportunities. These allied healthcare workers can pursue several jobs based on their interests and expertise, including positions in hospitals and clinics, research institutions, and public health groups. Hospitals and clinics are the primary workplaces for allied health workers. They collaborate with doctors to provide patient care, run specialised tests, evaluate results, and ensure proper diagnosis. They can also contribute to public health initiatives by working in community health facilities.

(The writer is vice chancellor, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha)