Gandhinagar: The Gujarat Nephrology Association (GNA), which had been on a three-day strike since August 14 in response to the disparities in dialysis rates within the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), has chosen to resume their services starting today. They are currently awaiting communication from the state government concerning the resolution of their concerns.

Nevertheless, a representative from the association has cautioned that they might even consider withdrawing from the coverage provided by PMJAY if the state government does not address their demands.

Dr. Jigar Srimali, a spokesperson for GNA, mentioned that government health authorities have neither acknowledged their grievances nor convened any meetings to date. Dr. Srimali noted, “We are resuming services for now because we do not want patients to face difficulties. However, we will wait another week or so to observe the government’s response. The final option would be to disassociate from PMJAY. We are also exploring potential legal actions.”

Private nephrologists serve at over 60 centres established by the government.

During the protest, which lasted from August 14 to 16, dialysis services under PMJAY were suspended. The protest was in opposition to various issues, including the reduction in the dialysis rate from Rs 2,300 to Rs 1,950, which took effect on July 11.

The association is seeking a dialysis rate of Rs 2,500, out of which Rs 300 will be allocated as a transport allowance for patients. This rate will encompass Rs 1,500 for the dialysis procedure and Rs 700 for the medication and injection package.

According to GNA, over 4,000 free dialysis sessions were provided in the private sector during the three-day strike period. DeshGujarat