The healthcare sector in India has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years. It has seen increased allocation in the budget recently. And with it, the demand for government procurement processes has risen. It is thus presenting immense opportunities for businesses.
With the 2024-25 Union Budget increasing healthcare expenditure by 14%, government healthcare tenders have surged. Investments in Ayushman Bharat, medical colleges, and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme are creating robust procurement needs.
The push for digital healthcare is increasing alongside. Initiatives like the National Digital Health Mission and advancements in health tech, including wearables and AI solutions, are opening new opportunities for suppliers to cater to innovative medical needs.
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) plays a pivotal role in fulfilling this demand, providing a transparent and efficient platform for procuring healthcare equipment, services, and supplies. For businesses in the healthcare sector, understanding the opportunities presented by GeM portal tenders is essential to thrive in this competitive market.
The Role of GeM in the Healthcare Sector
The GeM portal has completely changed government procurement. It has made the process more simple and accessible for many out there.
For the healthcare sector, GeM provides a centralised platform where government departments, hospitals, and medical institutions can procure essential items. These may be medicines, diagnostic equipment, surgical tools, or even personal protective equipment (PPE) kits.
Businesses registered on GeM get access to a wide range of government tenders. It enables them to bid for contracts in a fair and transparent manner. With the ongoing push for healthcare modernisation and better infrastructure, GeM tenders in this sector have become a lucrative opportunity for suppliers and service providers.
Why Focus on GeM Tenders in Healthcare?
1. Increased Government Spending
Healthcare has been a priority for the government, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. We are now seeing enhanced budgets and initiatives like Ayushman Bharat.
The healthcare sector in India is growing at a CAGR of 16.28% since 2008. It is projected to continue thriving further due to increased public health spending.
The demand for quality healthcare products and services has surged as a result. This growth is reflected in the number of GeM tenders published in the healthcare category.
2. Simplified Procurement for Healthcare Buyers
For hospitals and government health organisations, the GeM portal provides a hassle-free way to get goods and services. In healthcare, quick access to critical medical supplies is often essential. Through GeM, buyers can access a wide range of verified suppliers, compare prices, and get timely delivery.
3. Wide Access
Suppliers registered on GeM gain access to tenders ranging from pharmaceuticals to cutting-edge medical devices. Categories like diagnostic tools, pathology equipment, and wearable health devices are also gaining prominence.
4. Opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
The GeM portal has opened up opportunities for smaller healthcare suppliers to compete with larger corporations. With proper GeM registration, MSMEs can directly connect with government buyers and bid for contracts that were previously out of reach.
Key Products and Services in Healthcare GeM Tenders
The GeM portal caters to a wide range of procurement needs in the healthcare sector. Some of the key categories include:
- Medical Equipment: Diagnostic machines, X-ray systems, ventilators, and laboratory instruments.
- Pharmaceuticals: Medicines, vaccines, and other essential drugs.
- Surgical Supplies: Instruments, gloves, and other consumables.
- Hospital Furniture: Beds, trolleys, and ergonomic chairs.
- IT Services for Healthcare: Hospital management systems and telemedicine solutions.
By participating in GeM tenders, businesses can tap into these diverse categories and expand their reach within the government sector.
How to Access Healthcare Tenders on GeM
1. GeM Registration
The first step to accessing healthcare tenders on GeM is completing your GeM registration to become an approved supplier. You must provide essential details like GSTIN, PAN, and bank account information. Proper registration ensures that you can bid for tenders and supply your products to potential buyers.
2. Search Healthcare Tenders
Once registered, use your GeM login credentials to explore healthcare tenders. Filter based on categories, and bid for opportunities that are relevant to you. This includes contracts for supplying to government hospitals, wellness centres, and even large-scale public health initiatives.
3. Stay Updated on Tenders
Regularly log in to the GeM portal to stay updated on new healthcare tender opportunities. Other than the GeM portal, private platforms like BidAssist can help you stay updated on healthcare tenders on GeM. BidAssist’s AI-driven system gives you personalised tender recommendations. This ensures that suppliers receive alerts about the most relevant healthcare opportunities on GeM.
4. Prepare Competitive Bids
When bidding for GeM tenders, ensure your prices are competitive and your bid documents meet all the stated criteria. Highlight your experience and ability to deliver quality healthcare products or services within the required timeline.
Conclusion
The healthcare sector on the GeM portal is a growing market filled with immense potential for businesses. By registering on GeM and strategically bidding on tenders, you can tap into the a multi-billion-dollar market.
While the GeM portal offers numerous opportunities, businesses may face certain challenges. The healthcare category sees intense competition, making it essential to stand out with quality products and services. Also, government buyers demand adherence to stringent quality and safety standards. To succeed, you should build strong relationships with buyers, maintain consistent quality, and leverage the tools and features of BidAssist.