Lucknow: Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Friday said Uttar Pradesh’s healthcare sector has seen massive advancement since 2017 and the state govt was committed to providing the best treatment to all.
He was speaking during the Healthcare Conclave 2025 organised by The Economic Times in partnership with the medical, health and family welfare department, UP govt, and National Health Mission (NHM), UP.
“Healthcare is connected to every citizen. It is our duty to provide the best treatment and explore better options,” Pathak said.
He said govt medical colleges have increased from 17 in 2017 to the current 44, along with 36 private medical colleges. MBBS seats have tripled and postgraduate seats more than doubled. Each college is paired with nursing and paramedical institutions, he said.
Pathak said: “Earlier, recognition was granted to institutions without proper infrastructure. Now, Quality Control of India ensures transparency through inspection teams equipped with body cameras.”
He highlighted the free essential medicines at district hospitals, 100 new CT machines and ASHA workers facilitating timely services.
“Uttar Pradesh has 25,500 health centres offering 14 free tests, improving the treatment of vector-borne diseases,” Pathak said.
Principal secretary Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma said: “Special sanitation drives has helped in controlling infectious diseases. Disease Surveillance Code tracks 12 communicable diseases, with six vaccine-preventable diseases recently added.”
He added that Ayushman Bharat benefited 5.8 crore people with cards, with 68 lakh receiving free treatment. Teleconsultation services provided for 3.4 crore consultations and psychological counselling are available via the 14416 helpline.
“Uttar Pradesh is developing 30 critical care blocks, has appointed over 4,000 doctors, and operates 2,270 advanced life support ambulances. A real-time health monitoring system is ensuring transparency,” he added.
Data privacy concerns in AI
Agriculture production commissioner Monika S Garg raised concerns over patient data privacy while speaking on AI in healthcare. Advanced software developed by big tech companies relies heavily on patient data, raising questions about how sensitive information is stored and used. Many people unknowingly share medical details through apps offering free health services. Experts warn that without strict regulations, this data could be misused. Garg emphasised that doctors should be cautious while using AI tools as ensuring patient confidentiality remains a priority. The healthcare system must balance embracing AI innovations with protecting patient privacy to maintain trust.
Collaboration for authentic healthcare solutions
Ranjan Kumar, principal secretary, AYUSH and Food Safety & Drug Administration, Uttar Pradesh, emphasised the need for authentic knowledge-based resources from private firms to enhance healthcare services. He suggested that private sector associations should prepare a verified list of companies offering emerging technologies like virtual reality and home-based simulations. This list would help the govt collaborate quickly with trusted partners, especially in AYUSH medicine, where over 3,000 herbs still lack authentication.
