The Employees State Insurance Corporation , on September 20, 2024 issued a notification regarding the Standard specifications of equipment : C- Arm Image Intensifier , High Definition Arthroscopy Surgery System and Plasma Sterilizer for utilization by User units/ESIC Institutions.
Equipment and Estimated Costs
The notification outlines specifications for several key pieces of medical equipment, aimed at improving the quality of care provided in ESIC institutions.
- C-Arm Image Intensifier
- Estimated Cost: ₹90 Lakhs (Rupees Ninety Lakhs Only)
- High Definition Arthroscopy Surgery System
- Estimated Cost: ₹1.25 Crore (Rupees One Crore Twenty-Five Lakhs Only)
- Plasma Sterilizer (25 to 50 Litres)
- Estimated Cost: ₹55 Lakhs (Rupees Fifty-Five Lakhs Only)
- Plasma Sterilizer (90 to 120 Litres)
- Estimated Cost: ₹1 Crore (Rupees One Crore Only)
These costs are based on the specifications provided in the notification and are critical for budgeting and planning by the user units.
Key Guidelines for Procurement
The notification emphasizes the need for a structured approach to procurement, ensuring that all processes align with ESIC norms and government guidelines. Here are the critical aspects to consider:
1. Customization of Specifications
The equipment specifications are designed to be broad-based, allowing for technological updates and local adjustments. User units can modify these specifications based on local factors and user requirements, ensuring that the equipment meets the specific needs of their institutions.
2. Cost-Benefit Analysis
Before proceeding with procurement, each user unit is advised to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis. This evaluation should consider:
- HQRS Approval: Ensure that all necessary approvals are secured from the headquarters.
- Budgetary Provisions: Verify that budget allocations align with the estimated costs.
- Infrastructure and Manpower: Assess if there is adequate infrastructure and trained personnel to utilize the new equipment effectively.
3. Due Diligence on Cost Estimations
Given the dynamic nature of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), user units are advised to conduct thorough due diligence on cost estimations. This includes:
- Referencing GeM contracts and supply orders for pricing information.
- If GeM references are unavailable, user units must certify estimated rates based on market surveys or other methods, as outlined in the ESIC Medical Equipment Manual.
4. Approval for Higher Costs
In cases where the equipment costs exceed the established Delegation of Powers (DOP) or ESIC norms, user units must obtain prior approval from the headquarters. This involves submitting a detailed proposal with:
- Justifications for the procurement.
- A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, vetted by local finance and accounts departments.
5. Responsibilities of Heads of Institutions
It is imperative that the Heads of each ESIC institution take full responsibility for ensuring compliance with procurement guidelines. This includes adherence to:
- ESIC Equipment Norms
- Government Procurement Guidelines (GeM, GFR, CVC, Make in India)
- Availability of Infrastructure and Manpower
- Cost Reasonability and Utilization
The goal is to prevent any equipment from being purchased and then left unutilized, which would lead to wastage of resources.
Conclusion
The recent notification from ESIC serves as a comprehensive guide for the procurement of essential medical equipment. By adhering to the outlined specifications and procurement guidelines, ESIC institutions can ensure that they are equipped to provide high-quality healthcare services to their beneficiaries.
