Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: In a major step toward affordable healthcare, Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) is preparing to open economical drug and consumables stores within its campus. The initiative aims to provide patients with cheaper medicines, implants, and medical consumables at one place.
Dedicated Stores To Be Opened Across Departments
RIMS management plans to set up 3 to 4 “Economical Drug and Consumables Stores” across different departments. Director Dr. Rajkumar stated that implementing this system is a priority to ensure easy access to reliable and affordable medicines for patients.
Hospital Revolving Fund To Support Operations
To run the stores, a Hospital Revolving Fund (HRF) of around ₹1.5 crore will be created. A nominal surcharge of about 10% will be added to medicines, consumables, and implants to cover operational costs and staff salaries, with the long-term goal of making the system self-sustaining.
Significant Cost Reduction For Patients
Medicines will be procured through expert consultation and a proper tender process, including both generic and branded options. After final rate listing, drugs are expected to be 30–40% cheaper than market prices. Even after adding the surcharge, patients could get medicines and related items at 40–50% lower cost overall.
Phased Implementation Strategy
The rollout will be done in phases—starting with medicines, followed by consumables and implants. This approach ensures that patients eventually get all essential treatment-related items within the hospital premises itself.
Improved Transparency And Availability
Having in-house stores will enhance transparency, streamline supply, and ensure better quality control. It will also reduce dependency on external pharmacies and improve the overall patient experience.
