Private medical facilities: Licence validity extended for 2yrs, but hurdles remain

Say owners 2 MIN(s) T Tuhin Shubra Adhikary File Photo: Courtesy The health authorities have extended the validity of licences for private medical facilities from one year to two years, aiming to simplify the renewal process and reduce hassle for hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centres.The health ministry decided in December last year to extend the licence validity period, and the Directorate General of Health Services informed associations of private healthcare facilities of the decision on Sunday. The decision will take effect from July this year.However, owners of private medical facilities say the move will bring little benefit unless other government agencies also extend the validity of their mandatory clearances to two years.They also suggested that the government establish an umbr