Significant Policy Change in Bihar's Healthcare: In a bid to enhance healthcare services across Bihar, the state government has made a pivotal decision allowing MBBS doctors to perform ultrasounds. This will be possible after they complete a specialized training program lasting six months. The Health Department has communicated this directive to all medical colleges and district health authorities throughout the state. This initiative is expected to alleviate the challenges faced by patients, especially in smaller towns and rural regions, where there has been a long-standing shortage of radiologists.

Training Requirements:
As per the new guidelines from the Health Department, MBBS doctors are required to undergo 300 hours of training to be eligible for conducting ultrasounds. This training will be facilitated at various medical colleges in the state. Previously, regulations established in 2018 prohibited MBBS doctors from performing ultrasounds, but this new policy has amended those rules. The government has designated specific training slots at different medical colleges, with IGIMS receiving the highest allocation of 36 slots, while Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur will have 4 slots available. Prof. Kumari Vibha, the Principal of SKMCH, mentioned that they are currently reviewing the directives from the department.

Training Supervision:
The Health Department has stated that the training will be conducted under the supervision of qualified radiologists and gynecologists. To ensure effective implementation, a special committee has been formed, led by the Director-in-Chief, which includes senior officials from the Department of Health Education, the Vice-Chancellor of Bihar University of Health Sciences, and specialists from Radiology and Gynecology.

Additionally, doctors who have previously failed the Competency-Based Assessment (CBA) exam three times will also be permitted to enroll in this six-month training program. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certification.

Renewal Process on Hold:
Prior to the new directives, the renewal of ultrasound centers operated by MBBS doctors was suspended. The District Health Department is awaiting further instructions from headquarters on this matter. Officials have indicated that decisions regarding the renewal of these centers will only be made after receiving clear guidelines. Notices were also issued to several ultrasound centers for not submitting their monthly reports, and inspections are currently being conducted.

Doctors Operating in Multiple Locations:
Investigations have uncovered that numerous doctors are employed in Patna while simultaneously managing ultrasound centers in Muzaffarpur. The Health Department is taking a firm stance on these cases. Reports suggest that around a dozen doctors are running ultrasound facilities in Muzaffarpur while holding government positions in other districts. The renewal of these centers has been halted, and further actions will be taken once guidelines are received from headquarters.