2026-01-02 · News
The Assam government has recently mandated that all medical equipment purchases be conducted through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. This significant policy shift aims to bring greater transparency, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness to the procurement process within the state's healthcare sector. This decision is expected to impact both healthcare providers and medical equipment suppliers operating in Assam. The mandate brings about at least 7 key changes to the existing procedures, and understanding these shifts is crucial for all stakeholders.
What is GeM?
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) is an online platform established by the Government of India to facilitate the procurement of goods and services by various government departments, organizations, and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). It aims to bring transparency, efficiency, and speed to the public procurement process. Suppliers and buyers can register on the GeM portal to conduct business.
7 Key Changes in Assam's Medical Equipment Procurement Policy:
1. Mandatory Use of GeM: All government hospitals, medical colleges, and other healthcare institutions in Assam are now required to purchase medical equipment exclusively through the GeM portal. This eliminates the option of traditional tendering processes or direct purchases outside the platform, except under very specific exemptions outlined by the government.
2. Increased Transparency: The GeM portal promotes transparency by providing a centralized platform where all procurement activities are recorded and accessible. This allows for greater scrutiny and accountability, reducing the potential for corruption or irregularities. Details of equipment specifications, pricing, and supplier information are readily available.
3. Wider Supplier Base: The GeM platform allows access to a broader range of suppliers, both large and small, across the country. This increased competition can lead to better pricing and a wider selection of medical equipment for healthcare institutions in Assam. Local suppliers are encouraged to register and participate in the GeM platform.
4. Standardized Procurement Process: The GeM portal provides a standardized procurement process, ensuring that all purchases follow the same set of guidelines and procedures. This reduces ambiguity and streamlines the process for both buyers and suppliers. Standardized terms and conditions also protect the interests of both parties.
5. Price Discovery and Negotiation: The GeM platform facilitates price discovery through competitive bidding and reverse auctions. This allows healthcare institutions in Assam to obtain the best possible prices for medical equipment. Buyers also have the option to negotiate prices with suppliers directly on the platform.
6. Faster Procurement Cycles: By streamlining the procurement process, the GeM portal aims to reduce the time it takes to purchase medical equipment. This can help healthcare institutions in Assam respond more quickly to changing needs and ensure that essential equipment is available when required. The platform offers features such as e-bidding, e-invoicing, and online payment to expedite the process.
7. Improved Monitoring and Evaluation: The GeM portal allows the government to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the procurement process. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the state's healthcare institutions are getting the best value for their money.
Impact and Implications:
The mandate is expected to have a significant impact on the healthcare sector in Assam. It is likely to lead to greater efficiency and cost savings in the long run. However, there may be initial challenges as healthcare institutions and suppliers adapt to the new system.
For Healthcare Providers: Healthcare institutions will need to train their staff on how to use the GeM portal and adapt their procurement processes accordingly. They will also need to ensure that they have adequate IT infrastructure to access and use the platform effectively.
For Medical Equipment Suppliers: Suppliers will need to register on the GeM portal and comply with its requirements. They will also need to be competitive in terms of pricing and quality to win bids. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may require support to navigate the registration and bidding processes.
Conclusion:
The Assam government's decision to mandate medical equipment purchases through GeM marks a significant step towards modernizing and improving the state's healthcare procurement system. While challenges may arise during the transition, the long-term benefits of increased transparency, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are expected to outweigh the initial hurdles. Whether these 7 changes prove to be a step forward remains to be seen, but the move signals a commitment to better governance and resource management in the healthcare sector.
