This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s public healthcare system, ensuring wider access to essential diagnostic services and more efficient emergency response mechanisms.
Published Apr 03, 2025 | 11:46 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 03, 2025 | 11:46 AM
Andhra Pradesh announces doorstep diagnostic tests through Mobile Medical Units. (iStock)
Synopsis: Andhra Pradesh introduces 47 confirmatory diagnostic tests via Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) under the redesigned 104 services. This initiative aims to create health profiles, estimate disease burden, and improve healthcare access. The service will be piloted, with each MMU screening 35 people daily. Additionally, a new service provider has taken over 108 and 104 services, enhancing emergency response efficiency.
In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced the introduction of 47 confirmatory diagnostic tests at the doorstep of citizens under the redesigned Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) services, popularly known as 104 services.
The initiative comes as part of a newly finalized tender aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility across the state.
According to the state health department, this extensive diagnostic program is designed to create a detailed health profile of the population and generate Electronic Health Records (EHR). These records will assist the government in assessing the current and future disease burden in the state, enabling targeted interventions.
“The significance of this initiative is highlighted by the fact that, at present, only two ‘rapid kit’ tests for diabetes and hypertension are conducted through 104 ambulances. The new program marks a major step forward in healthcare delivery,” the health department said in a statement.
The confirmatory diagnostic tests include 20 common tests for all beneficiaries, such as:
These tests will facilitate comprehensive health profiling and disease burden estimation. In addition, 27 disease-specific tests will also be conducted.
“The newly appointed service provider has agreed to conduct the 20 common tests at a cost of ₹195 per person, while the disease-specific tests will be provided at competitive rates. Each MMU vehicle is expected to screen about 35 persons per day,” said the health department.
Initially, the confirmatory diagnostic testing will be implemented on a pilot basis to assess the reliability of data generated before scaling it up across the state.
To support this initiative, each of the 904 MMU vehicles will be equipped with a Semi-Automatic Biochemistry Analyzer, a CBC Machine 3-part Analyzer, a Microscope, and an Incubator. A dedicated lab technician will also be deployed per vehicle.
Following the decision of the existing service provider to withdraw from 108 and 104 services, the government has identified a new agency to continue operations. A consortium led by Bhavya Health Services Pvt. Ltd, with SRIT India Private Limited as a partner, has been selected through a tendering process.
The cost of operating 108 and 104 services, including the Emergency Response Centre, will rise from ₹28 crore per month to ₹31 crore per month—an increase of less than 11 percent. The cost hike accounts for several factors, including the purchase of 190 new 108 ambulances to replace older vehicles in the existing fleet of 731.
Rising fuel prices and increased wages for staff have also contributed to the marginal cost rise. The price of diesel, which was ₹70 per litre in 2020, has now increased to ₹97.47 per litre. Additionally, 108 ambulance drivers will receive an increment of ₹2,000 per month. Inflation, along with higher costs for equipment and maintenance, has also factored into the revised cost structure.
To improve the efficiency of 108 services, the government has introduced two new conditions. Firstly, from the time a call is received, the patient must be transported to a hospital within one hour—aligning with the “Golden Hour” principle crucial for emergency medical care.
Secondly, addressing concerns over approximately 200 unattended calls per day under the current service provider, the government noted that all emergency calls must be attended.
This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s public healthcare system, ensuring wider access to essential diagnostic services and more efficient emergency response mechanisms.
(Edited by Sumavarsha)
