KPMG and FICCI release a report on strengthening post-graduate medical education in India

KPMG in India, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), has released a new report titled “Strengthening Post Graduate Medical Education in India”. The report was unveiled at the 18th edition of FICCI’s annual healthcare conference, FICCI HEAL 2024.  This report highlights the urgent need for reform in India’s healthcare system, where universal health coverage (UHC) is a national priority. With a growing population and increasing healthcare demands, ensuring affordability, accessibility, and availability of services is essential for equitable health outcomes. The report emphasises the critical role of medical education in addressing the shortage of qualified professionals and analyses the evolution of the Indian healthcare ecosystem over the past thirty years. It identifies three key pillars—Affordability, Accessibility, and Availability (the 3As)—that are vital for equitable healthcare services.

While the Government of India has introduced initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) to promote UHC, challenges such as a shortage of qualified doctors and disparities in medical education remain. The report calls for a reevaluation of the medical education system to better align with evolving healthcare needs and global standards, aiming to enhance the quality of healthcare professionals and improve health outcomes.

Challenges:

• Workforce shortages: India’s postgraduate medical education faces significant challenges, including a shortage of qualified professionals due to uneven seat distribution and migration of students abroad.
• Geographic disparities: There are disparities in the availability of medical seats across different regions, with rural and underserved areas particularly affected.
• Preference for MD/MS: A preference for MD/MS programs over DNB options limits diversity in training and specialties. Elevating the status of the Diplomate of National Board (DNB) by positioning it as a prestigious and viable option alongside MD/MS programs is crucial.
• Lack of research and compliance Issues: Insufficient focus on research, regulatory compliance challenges, and a mismatch between specialty training and healthcare demand are ongoing concerns.

Key recommendations for strengthening PG medical education:

1. Enhancing quality:
   • Modernise curricula to focus on competency-based education, soft skills, and ethics.
   • Improve faculty development and teaching experiences.
   • Incorporate technology and digital health into training.
   • Promote public-private partnerships (PPP) to elevate educational standards.
2. Improving access:
   • Expand postgraduate seat capacity and ensure equitable distribution across specialties and states.
   • Leverage PPPs and government support to improve infrastructure.
   • Diversify entry pathways and provide financial aid to ensure accessibility for all aspiring medical professionals.
3. Incentives for less popular specialties:
   • Introduce financial incentives and loan repayment programs to attract professionals to less popular fields.
   • Offer career growth and professional development opportunities.
   • Enhance awareness and recognition of these specialties to increase interest among students.
4. Expanding alternative PG programmes:
   • Optimize pathways like the Diplomate of National Board (DNB) to position it as a prestigious alternative to MD/MS programs.
   • Elevate the status of DNB programs through recognition and support.
   • Provide financial support to attract and retain talent in alternative pathways.
5. Fostering research and innovation:
   • Establish supportive environments for research and integrate it into clinical training.
   • Offer research grants to encourage exploration and development in medical science.
   • Collaborate with academic institutions and government for resource sharing and multidisciplinary initiatives.

Commenting on the report, Dr Anna van Poucke, Global Head of Healthcare, KPMG International said, “India’s healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, emerging as a beacon of hope and innovation on the global stage. With the government’s commitment to universal health coverage, we are witnessing a proactive approach to ensuring that healthcare is not just a privilege for the few but a right for all. However, as India embraces this evolution, a focus on cultivating a skilled workforce that meets the demands of modern healthcare is crucial. By addressing the urgent shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, India can ensure that its advancements translate into tangible benefits for every citizen. As we look ahead, India’s healthcare journey offers valuable lessons for the world. The emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and quality in healthcare can inspire other nations to rethink their own systems. In this era of global health challenges, it is essential that we share knowledge and best practices to build resilient healthcare ecosystems that prioritise the well-being of all.”

Lalit Mistry, Partner and Co-head, Healthcare, KPMG in India said “The transformation of postgraduate medical education in India represents a monumental opportunity for our healthcare system. We are at a crossroads where the demand for skilled medical professionals has never been greater. The report highlights that addressing educational disparities and aligning our training with healthcare needs is essential. By modernising our curricula, enhancing practical training, and ensuring equitable access across regions and specialties, we can build a healthcare workforce that is well-prepared and committed to serving our diverse communities. This is more than just a response to current challenges; it is an investment in a healthier future for every citizen of India.”