Category: Medical

Scientists, researchers and students from several Oregon universities were among the crowd of more than 500 people rallying against federal directives threatening funding for scientific and medical research at the state capitol Friday.

Some researchers at the event outwardly embraced their work, wearing lab coats to the rally, while others held handmade signs that read “science saves lives” and “freeze proteins, not funding.”

“Thank you all for showing up and choosing science, not silence,” Brittany Barker told the assembled supporters outside the capitol building. Barker was the lead organizer of the rally and is an assistant research professor at Oregon State University.

The rally, called “Stand Up for Science 2025,” was part of a grassroots, nationwide effort advocating for the federal government to support scientific research in the US Organizers say marches and demonstrations were held in nearly every state Friday, with a main rally in Washington D.C.

Educating the public about what scientists and researchers do is a big part of the rally’s message.

“Science funds important health research. It gives us safe food for our children and also keeps our environment safe,” said Barker. “It helps us respond better to natural disasters such as the wildfires that we experience in Oregon. These advances are due to science.”

The event is a direct response to the flurry of executive orders, directives and funding freezes put in place in the first weeks of the Trump administration. Among other things, the directives ordered federal agencies to root out fraud, waste and abuse of federal dollars.

Researchers at the Salem rally were especially concerned with the National Institutes of Health’s move to curb research funding.

“If I didn’t have NIH funding, I’m not sure I’d be standing here or that the hundreds of thousands of lives that have been saved [by cancer research] would be here today,” said Oregon Health and Science University professor and former OHSU Knight Cancer Institute CEO Brian Druker. Druker, who spoke at the rally, is widely known for his research that led to a groundbreaking leukemia treatment.

Last month, the NIH unveiled a new policy that would cap indirect costs from research grants the agency funds to 15%. Indirect costs go toward expenses that ensure researchers can run their projects successfully like rental fees for facilities, utility bills and salaries for administrative staff.

Organizations, universities and other entities that are awarded NIH grants often take on these expenses in real-time and are then reimbursed by the agency through a previously negotiated indirect costs rate. The average rate is 28%, but some institutions, like Oregon Health and Science University, have negotiated rates above 50%.

The new NIH policy is currently blocked after a federal judge extended a temporary injunction earlier this week.

“Science, especially basic science research like I’m doing, is foundational to medicine and health care that has saved lives around the world,” said Megan Radler, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Oregon who attended the rally. “I think most importantly, diverse minds in science are crucial to doing good science. The gag order about diversity, equity and inclusion is deeply disturbing to me.”

US Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-Oregon) also attended the Salem event. She called the attempt to cut scientific and medical research funding reckless.

“Science is not a partisan issue. It’s about progress, economic opportunity, and ensuring a better future for all Oregonians and all Americans,” Salinas said. “These unprecedented attacks on truth and innovation are at their core, attacks on the health and economic security of all working Americans.” OPB

The hospital bed market has been witnessing steady growth, propelled by the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, an aging population, and the increasing number of hospital admissions worldwide. Hospital beds play a critical role in ensuring patient comfort, facilitating medical procedures, and supporting recovery. With the healthcare sector emphasizing better patient care and advanced treatment facilities, the demand for modern, multifunctional hospital beds has escalated significantly. According to Persistence Market Research, the global hospital bed market is projected to reach USD 5.91 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.7%. This report explores the factors driving the market, key trends, challenges, opportunities, and future outlook for the hospital bed industry.

Hospital beds are specialized beds designed to enhance the comfort, safety, and care of patients during their stay in healthcare facilities. These beds come with adjustable height, head, and foot sections, and are often equipped with advanced features such as electronic controls, side rails, and integrated monitoring systems. The increasing focus on improving patient outcomes and the rising adoption of healthcare technologies have significantly influenced the development and deployment of innovative hospital bed solutions.

Key drivers of market growth
Rising healthcare expenditure: Increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure by governments and private entities worldwide are driving the demand for advanced hospital beds equipped with modern features.

Aging population: The growing geriatric population, particularly in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific, has led to higher hospitalization rates, boosting the need for specialized beds with enhanced safety and comfort features.

Surge in chronic diseases: The rising prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders has escalated hospital admissions, creating a steady demand for hospital beds.

Technological advancements: Innovations such as smart beds integrated with sensors for monitoring vital signs, pressure redistribution mattresses, and automated bed positioning systems are transforming the hospital bed market.

Increased focus on infection control: The Covid-19 pandemic underscored the importance of infection control in healthcare settings, driving the demand for beds with antimicrobial surfaces and easy-to-clean designs.

Rising number of hospitals and ICU units: Expansion of healthcare facilities, especially in emerging markets, coupled with the establishment of new intensive care units (ICUs), is significantly contributing to market growth.

Key types of hospital beds
Manual beds: Operated without electrical assistance, these beds are cost-effective and commonly used in smaller healthcare facilities or settings with limited budgets.
Semi-Electric Beds: Feature both manual and electric controls, allowing adjustments for height and head or foot positioning, providing a balance between functionality and cost.

Electric beds: Fully automated with electronic controls for all adjustments, electric beds are preferred in intensive care units and for long-term patient care due to their ease of use and enhanced comfort.

Bariatric beds: Specifically designed for overweight and obese patients, these beds have a higher weight capacity and wider dimensions to ensure comfort and safety.
Pediatric Beds: Customized for children, featuring safety rails and specific dimensions, ensuring safety and comfort for younger patients.

Specialty beds: Include air-fluidized beds, low air loss beds, and rotational beds designed to prevent bedsores, manage pressure ulcers, and improve patient outcomes.

Technological advancements in hospital beds
Smart beds: Integrated with sensors for monitoring patient movement, heart rate, and respiratory patterns, smart beds provide real-time data to healthcare providers, enhancing patient management.

Automated bed controls: Features such as remote control adjustments for height, tilt, and recline positions simplify caregiving and enhance patient comfort.

Pressure redistribution technology: Advanced mattresses with pressure redistribution capabilities help prevent bedsores in bedridden patients.

Integrated monitoring systems: Hospital beds equipped with monitoring systems can alert caregivers to changes in a patient’s condition, reducing the risk of complications.

Hygienic and antimicrobial surfaces: Beds designed with antimicrobial coatings and easy-to-clean materials address infection control concerns effectively.

Challenges facing the hospital bed market
High costs: Advanced hospital beds with smart technologies involve substantial costs, limiting their adoption in resource-constrained healthcare facilities.

Stringent regulatory requirements: Compliance with international standards and certifications for safety and quality can be cumbersome for manufacturers.

Maintenance and durability: Ensuring the longevity and maintenance of technologically advanced beds poses a challenge for healthcare facilities.

Limited adoption in developing regions: The high cost and lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets hinder the widespread adoption of advanced hospital beds.

Supply chain disruptions: The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in supply chains, affecting the timely delivery and manufacturing of hospital beds globally.

Opportunities for market expansion
Home healthcare: The rising preference for home-based care, particularly for elderly and chronic disease patients, presents significant growth opportunities for hospital bed manufacturers.

Growing demand for ICU beds: The surge in ICU admissions due to pandemics and critical illnesses has amplified the demand for intensive care beds with advanced life support features.

Public-private partnerships: Increasing collaborations between governments and private healthcare providers to expand hospital infrastructure are likely to boost the hospital bed market.

Focus on customization: Customizable hospital beds that cater to specific patient needs and medical conditions are gaining popularity.

Sustainability and green initiatives: Growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient hospital equipment is opening new avenues for market players.

Regional insights
North America: Dominates the hospital bed market due to high healthcare spending, the presence of major market players, and increasing adoption of advanced healthcare technologies.

Europe: Witnesses substantial growth driven by a well-established healthcare infrastructure and rising geriatric population.

Asia-Pacific: Expected to exhibit the fastest growth owing to increasing healthcare investments, a rapidly aging population, and rising hospital admissions.

Latin America and Middle East & Africa: Improving healthcare infrastructure and government initiatives to expand hospital facilities are driving market growth in these regions.

Impact of Covid-19 on the hospital bed market
Surge in Demand for ICU Beds: The Covid-19 pandemic significantly increased the demand for ICU and ventilator-equipped beds globally.

Focus on Infection Control: Healthcare facilities prioritized hospital beds with antimicrobial and easy-to-sanitize features to minimize infection risks.

Supply chain challenges: Lockdowns and trade restrictions led to supply chain disruptions, impacting the production and delivery of hospital beds.

Government initiatives: Governments across the globe ramped up healthcare infrastructure and procurement of hospital beds to tackle the pandemic effectively.

Future outlook
Increased Adoption of Smart Beds: The integration of AI and IoT in hospital beds is expected to become mainstream, enhancing patient monitoring and care efficiency.
Focus on Home Care: The rising trend of home healthcare is likely to drive demand for portable and easy-to-operate hospital beds.

Sustainability in hospital equipment: Growing awareness about sustainable healthcare practices is expected to drive innovations in hospital bed manufacturing.

Technological advancements: Enhanced functionalities such as wireless monitoring, remote control, and pressure management are expected to become standard features in hospital beds.

Conclusion
The hospital bed market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by rising healthcare needs, advancements in technology, and an aging population. As healthcare facilities continue to focus on enhancing patient care and safety, the demand for modern, feature-rich hospital beds will remain strong. Manufacturers must invest in innovation, sustainability, and affordability to tap into emerging opportunities and maintain a competitive edge in this evolving market landscape. Persistence Market Research

Faced with lack of medical specialists, the Punjab government is planning to hand over some of its hospitals to private institutes. This will be the first time that government hospitals will be run by private players.

When asked about the proposal, health minister Dr Balbir Singh said it would be a public-private partnership (PPP) just like the private diagnostic centres being run at government health facilities. “We don’t have paediatrician at some places and no gynaecologist in a few areas. To overcome this shortage, we are planning to start a pilot project wherein private players will run the hospitals,” the minister said.

A person familiar with the development said no major hospital would be handed over to the private sector. Smaller health facilities facing shortage of specialists are being considered under the PPP model, said the official, wishing not to be named.

Dr Balbir Singh added that corporate hospitals have already expressed their desire to run government hospitals. “Patients will get free treatment. We will reimburse the private players for providing their services. Names of the government hospitals will not be changed,” he clarified.

According to Dr Balbir Singh, this (PPP) model is already in place at government hospitals as radio diagnostics centres are being run by a private company. “Our experience has been good so far with Krsnaa Diagnostics Ltd that has been providing services at government hospitals,” said the health minister.

When asked about the shortage of medical experts in the health department, Dr Balbir Singh said the government had been recruiting experts regularly.

As per Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association, 1,554 posts of medical specialists are vacant against the 2,689 sanctioned posts. “It is our government that has been making sure that no government doctor, who completes postgraduation on government quota, leaves the health department without completing the stipulated bond period. Besides, we have been regularly holding recruitments,” said Dr Balbir. Hindustan Times

MLC Ivan D’Souza has welcomed the government’s decision to upgrade Wenlock Hospital into a regional facility, alongside the allocation of significant funds for its development. He also expressed his satisfaction over the green signal for the Christian Development Corporation, marking a major step forward in community welfare.

Addressing the media on Saturday, March 8, D’Souza stated, “The government has allocated Rs 650 crore for the development of eight hospitals across the state. Among these, Wenlock Hospital is one of the selected institutions, with a possibility of receiving up to Rs 250 crore for its upgrade. There is a strong need to transform Wenlock Hospital into a multi-specialty facility, similar to the Kidwai Hospital.”

Christian Development Corporation gets green signal
D’Souza also revealed that the government has approved the Christian Development Corporation, with a president and vice president now appointed. He explained, “I recommended the creation of this corporation in 2014. Although it was approved in 2019, its implementation was delayed. However, this year’s budget has announced an allocation of Rs 250 crore.”

He emphasised the importance of establishing a separate directorate for the Christian Development Corporation, which would simplify decision-making, facilitate the release of funds, and provide matching grants.

On Shaktinagar incident
Addressing the recent Shaktinagar incident, D’Souza responded, “MLA Vedavyas Kamath needs to stop making disparaging remarks about Congress party workers during public events. His speeches are provoking his supporters. Yashwanth Prabhu was never mentioned in the FIR as having been assaulted by Vedavyas Kamath. The atrocity case and the allegations against Yashwanth Prabhu are baseless and fabricated.” Daijiworld

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet on Monday approved 19 proposals across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, industry and infrastructure.

New medical, nursing colleges approved

• The Cabinet cleared the free transfer of 14.05 acres of land from the Ballia district jail to the Medical Education Department for establishing a new medical college. Of this, 12.39 acres will be used for the college, while 2 acres will be developed into a memorial for freedom fighter Chittu Pandey, after whom the college may be named.
• In another decision, 4,570 sq metres of land from the Government Agricultural School in Balipura village (Bulandshahr) will be transferred to the Medical Education Department to establish a nursing college.
• The Cabinet also approved revised administrative and financial sanctions for a 300-bed gynaecology block, including a 100-bed paediatric block, under the Uttar Pradesh Institute of Medical Sciences in Saifai, Etawah.

India TV News

In alignment with President Trump’s Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunitylinks to an external website, today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is announcing investigations into four medical schools and hospitals under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (Section 1557).

These investigations are in response to allegations and information OCR received that certain medical schools and hospitals that receive HHS funding may operate medical education, training, or scholarship programs for current or prospective workforce members that discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex. National policy under Executive Order 14173 directs federal agencies to enforce long-standing civil rights laws and “to combat illegal private sector [diversity, equity and inclusion] DEI preferences, mandates, policies, programs, and activities.”

“Today’s actions restore merit-based opportunities in medicine and signify that hard-working health care professionals and high-achieving students in the pipeline for medical and nursing fields should not be demeaned at work, or excluded from professional or scholarship opportunities, because of their race or sex,” said Anthony Archeval, Acting Director of the Office for Civil Rights at HHS.

Under Executive Order 14173, each agency, in coordination with the Attorney General, is required to identify “nine potential civil compliance investigations” of corporations, associations, foundations, and institutions of higher education with endowments over 1 billion dollars as part of a strategic enforcement plan. HHS.gov

The World Health Organization is offering the option of voluntary early retirement to eligible employees as it seeks to rein in costs ahead of a planned exit by the United States, its biggest financial backer.

The voluntary early retirement package is being offered to staffers at all duty stations, the WHO said in a statement emailed on Friday.

The scheme is intended for staff above 55 and those who accept would have to leave the agency by July 15, it said.

The WHO, which typically receives about a fifth of its overall annual funding from the US, has been forced to freeze hiring and initiate budget cuts ever since President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal.

The US funded 75% of the WHO’s program for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases and accounted for more than half the contributions it received to combat tuberculosis during the agency’s 2024-25 budget period.

Trump, who started a 12-month withdrawal process for the US to leave the WHO earlier this year, has said he may consider rejoining the agency.

Bloomberg News was the first to report the WHO’s early retirement program.

Trump also ordered a 90-day pause on foreign aid contributions, throwing global humanitarian relief efforts into chaos. But the US Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to let the administration withhold payments to foreign aid organizations for services already rendered to the government. Reuters

A US federal judge has found the Chinese government liable for its actions during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, ruling that China is responsible for concealing the virus’ spread and hoarding vital protective equipment, said local media.

US Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. of the US state of Missouri on Friday imposed a $24 billion penalty on China, a move that officials vow to enforce by seizing Chinese assets, including land in the state, said the New York Times.

The lawsuit, initiated by Missouri’s attorney general’s office in April 2020, accused China of withholding critical information about the virus’ existence and transmission while simultaneously limiting the global supply of personal protective equipment (PPE).

The case, filed during the early months of the pandemic, claimed these actions contributed to significant delays in the US response, the report says.

In his decision, Limbaugh pointed to evidence that China was aware of Covid’s spread much earlier than it shared with the global community.

The judge also said China took steps to nationalize American factories within its borders to prioritize domestic production of protective equipment, limiting its availability for export and raising prices in markets like Missouri.

Chinese officials, however, rejected the decision.

Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for China’s Embassy in Washington, called the case groundless.

“The so-called lawsuit has no basis in fact, law or international precedence,” Liu said in a statement. “China does not and will not accept it. If China’s interests are harmed, we will firmly take reciprocal countermeasures according to international law.” Anadolu Ajansı

Healthcare facilities in tier-II and III cities have long struggled with the disparity between affordability and accessibility of quality healthcare services. These cities often lack well-equipped medical centres, forcing patients to travel to nearby metropolitan areas for advanced treatment. The shortage of trained medical professionals further exacerbates the problem.

The doctor-to-patient ratio in these cities remains significantly below the WHO-recommended standard of 1:1000, often reaching alarming ratios such as 1:25,000.@The Accessibility GapOne of the major factors behind this situation is the concentration of healthcare resources in metropolitan areas. Government hospitals in smaller cities often grapple with overcrowding, long waiting lines, and outdated infrastructure. Meanwhile, private hospitals that offer advanced treatments are often unaffordable for the majority of the population. This leaves patients with limited options, pushing them to seek care in distant metro cities.

However, in recent years, several hospitals in tier-II cities have made significant strides in bridging this gap. The emergence of well-equipped hospitals outside major metropolitan areas is proving to be a game-changer for patients who previously had to travel long distances for treatment. Health Institutions like Subharti Hospital in Meerut exemplify how tier-II cities are evolving to provide comprehensive and affordable healthcare not only under the Ayushman Bharat Mission but also for uninsured patients, reducing dependence on metropolitan hospitals.

Ayushman Bharat and affordability
One of the biggest challenges in tier-II and III cities is making advanced healthcare both available and affordable.

Many private hospitals offer high-end treatment facilities, but their pricing structures make them inaccessible to a significant portion of the population.

To address this issue, some hospitals are designing cost-effective treatment models that prioritize patient affordability without compromising on quality. Additionally, government schemes and insurance programs such as Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY need to be further expanded and better implemented in these regions. Many eligible patients are unaware of their entitlements under schemes like PMJAY, leading to underutilization of available resources. Increased awareness and streamlined implementation of such initiatives can make a significant difference in ensuring financial accessibility to quality healthcare.

Advancements in medical technology
Traditionally, hospitals in non-metro areas have been perceived as lacking advanced infrastructure and specialized treatment options. However, this perception is gradually changing.

Many healthcare institutions such as Subharti Hospital in Meerut are now investing in cutting-edge medical technology, including advanced imaging facilities such as digital PET scans, high-resolution MRI and CT scans, and modern oncology treatment options like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The availability of these services locally is significantly reducing the burden on patients who would otherwise have to commute to larger cities.

A breakthrough in Meerut is the introduction of comprehensive treatment centres, particularly in fields like oncology. Cancer patients, for example, often face logistical and financial challenges when forced to visit different hospitals for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The integration of these services under one roof in tier-II cities is improving patient outcomes and reducing treatment delays. Subharti Hospital, for instance, has emerged as a reliable healthcare provider in Western Uttar Pradesh, offering a full spectrum of oncology services in a single location, saving patients valuable time and resources.

The road ahead
Ensuring quality healthcare in tier-II and III cities requires a multi-pronged approach that includes expanding medical infrastructure, ensuring equitable resource distribution, increasing investment in medical education to address the shortage of trained professionals, and encouraging partnerships to enhance healthcare accessibility. As healthcare in India evolves, tier-II and III cities are poised to play a crucial role in expanding medical access beyond metropolitan areas.

Continuous efforts are needed to overcome existing challenges and create a healthcare system that is truly inclusive and accessible to all. With a focused approach towards affordability, accessibility, and technological advancements, the future of healthcare in non-metro regions holds immense potential. By addressing these challenges head-on, tier-II and III cities can become the next frontier in India’s healthcare transformation. Daily Pioneer

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday announced that Rs 110 crore will be allocated in the upcoming fiscal year to equip all district hospitals with CT scan facilities.

The initiative aims to enhance diagnostic services across the region, ensuring timely and accurate medical interventions for residents.

Currently, several district hospitals in JK lack CT scan facilities, and their introduction at the district level will significantly benefit patients.

Additionally, the government has allocated Rs 86 crore for the construction of a 250-bed Maternity and Child Care Hospital (MCCH) in Janglatmandi, Anantnag.

CM Omar Abdullah highlighted that the existing MCCH Anantnag operates from a dilapidated building with limited space. Declared unsafe by the Fire and Emergency Department in 2014, the facility is overcrowded, with beds placed in corridors to accommodate patients.

Located in the congested Sherbagh locality, the hospital currently has only two labour wards, four surgical wards, and one operation theatre to cater to the increasing patient load. Hospital staff reported that multiple patients often share single beds, leading to congestion and compromised healthcare services.

A proposal for constructing a 200-bed maternity and childcare hospital on the premises of the GMC Anantnag-associated Janglatmandi Hospital was submitted in December last year.

At present, the hospital handles over 50,000 OPD patients and around 10,000 indoor patients every month. Officials emphasised that new infrastructure is essential to provide tertiary-level maternal and child care services in South Kashmir. KNO