FDA chief Tukaram flags huge price gaps in medical devices, seeks Centre’s intervention

The Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has requested the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) to cap prices on medical and surgical consumables in hospitals. This development stems from a survey conducted in July by the FDA across 20-odd hospitals in Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Pune, and Sambhaji Nagar. The survey revealed a significant price disparity between the actual procurement prices of medical aids and the MRP rates charged to patients.

For instance, an IV infusion, procured for ₹11.05, was sold for ₹325, a price gap of 2,841%. Similarly, a syringe, procured at ₹6.75, was sold for ₹57.20, and a catheter, procured at ₹29.41, was sold for ₹310. The FDA official expressed concern over these unjustifiable hikes, stating that patients are often unable to compare prices, seek alternatives, or question the printed price on a box while receiving care.

The FDA has formally written to the NPPA, asking for the capping of medical consumable prices, similar to the pricing system for scheduled drugs under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013.