Paramedical education in region gets a fillip, GD Goenka Healthcare Academy opens 

Panchkula, February 24, 2024: Aimed at providing quality training to aspiring candidates of different paramedical streams, GD Goenka Healthcare Academy has forayed into the region. Prof Karamjeet Singh, Vice Chancellor, Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University (JGNDPSOU), Patiala inaugurated GD Goenka Healthcare Academy in Peer Muchalla, adjoining Sec 20 Panchkula. It is noteworthy that paramedics are health care assistants, laboratory technicians, technologists, therapists etc. who work alongside qualified medical practitioners in hospitals and health care setups. 

Prof. Singh said, “I am sure the academy in tricity will not only help in bridging the gap in the region for paramedics but also nationally. I have been informed that all courses on offer are given in association with the prestigious names in the field of career oriented vocational paramedical courses recognized from national and international bodies.”

Mohit Mehra, CEO, GD Goenka Healthcare, said, “There is a huge demand and supply gap for trained paramedics in India’s healthcare industry. There is a current shortage of 2.5 million paramedics and the industry is poised to grow to 18 million by 2030. We have  over 70 centres across India, and are trying to do our bit to bridge this huge gap. It is also pertinent to note that according to an ASSOCHAM report India's healthcare industry is expected to grow to hit $50 billion in size by 2025. Additionally, in the Union Budget 2023-24, the government allocated Rs. 89,155 crores (US$ 10.76 billion) to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).” 

Sharat Singh, Director, GD Goenka HealthCare Academy, Peer Muchalla, said, “We will be offering 12 certificate courses, 7 diplomas, 8 degrees and 4 Post Graduate courses in different paramedical fields. Courses like Emergency Medical Technician – Basic, ECG Assistant, Blood Bank Technician, Psychotherapy Assistant, Pharmacy Assistant, Dental Assistant, Dialysis Technician, X-ray Technician, and Radiology Technician among others will be provided.  Even paramedical courses that the Indian Medical Association (IMA) recognizes will be offered by the Academy.”  

It was informed that the criteria for certificate courses is that minimum Class X pass outs can enrol in these and certificate courses' duration is between six months and one year; for diplomas and degrees minimum qualifying criteria is Class XII and for Masters its Graduation.

Swapan Singh, Consultant, GD Goenka HealthCare Academy, Peer Muchalla, said, “There are clinical internships offered to students in hospitals and the exposure to practical learning is quite a lot.  The academy has its own dialysis machine to teach the basics of dialysis to students, there are other practical learning aids also available.” 

Swapan  added, “100 percent placement assistance is given to the students. The students who come from weaker sections can avail of 100 per cent educational loan, which is provided interest free due to the arrangements of the Academy with different financial institutions.” 

“Healthcare is a fast-paced and rewarding industry and there are huge employment opportunities not just in India but even abroad. We just need skilled professionals, who will have not only rapid career growth but also job security," summed up Sharat Singh.