The Health Department’s initiatives have enabled significant changes in the distribution of drugs across Bihar’s government hospitals. 611 different kinds of medications are now given to patients at state-run hospitals for free under the new drug policy.

According to the department, Bihar is now the nation’s top state for drug distribution, with the supply of medications from government institutions having increased tenfold over the last 20 years.

Department data indicates that spending on the distribution and sale of medicines has also increased tenfold, from little amounts in previous years to over Rs 762 crore in the fiscal year 2024–2025. In 2025–2026, this sum is expected to increase to Rs 1,100 crore.

The department emphasizes that a significant improvement in healthcare services is shown in this change. Essential medications were mostly unavailable in hospitals prior to 2005. However, even life-saving medications are now available due to legislative changes made after 2005, greatly lessening the financial burden on patients who are less well-off.