Privatisation of Medical Colleges in Andhra May Hurt Tribal Healthcare, Says Araku MP

Privatisation of Medical Colleges in Andhra May Hurt Tribal Healthcare, Says Araku MP
Privatisation of medical colleges in Andhra may create serious problems for tribal patients, said Araku MP Gumma Thanuja Rani on Thursday. She warned that poor families in tribal areas may not be able to afford treatment if government-run colleges move into private hands.
Speaking to the media, the MP said many tribal people depend on public hospitals for surgeries and long-term care. Their incomes remain very low. Private hospitals charge high fees, which most families cannot pay. She said this change would push healthcare out of reach for thousands.
Rani pointed out that medical colleges in agency areas play a key role in saving lives. Doctors there treat complex cases at low cost. Students also learn while serving remote communities. She said privatisation would weaken this system and reduce access to quality care.
The MP urged the State government to protect public medical institutions. She asked leaders to strengthen facilities instead of handing them over to private groups. According to her, healthcare should remain a basic right, not a business.
She also called for more doctors, better equipment, and stronger outreach in tribal regions. These steps, she said, would improve trust and health outcomes.