The prices of Liquid Medical Oxygen LMO and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas

## Policy Analysis Report: Extension of Price Controls on Liquid Medical Oxygen and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal Gas **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Department of Pharmaceuticals, extending price controls on Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas. This is an amendment to an existing order (S.O. 3322E dated 25.09.2020) originally setting these price controls. The key finding is that the price controls, initially set to expire on March 31, 2021, are now extended until September 30, 2021, or until further orders. This extension aims to ensure the continued affordability and accessibility of these essential medical gases during an ongoing need. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide an informative analysis of the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) order extending price controls on Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas, based solely on the provided policy text. This report aims to offer a concise understanding of the policy's objectives, changes, and potential impacts. **3. Policy Overview:** * **Amendment To:** S.O. 3322E dated 25.09.2020 * **Core Objective(s):** Based on the text, the core objective is to maintain control over the prices of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas. This is inferred from the extension of existing price controls. **4. Background and Rationale:** This is an amendment, specifically an extension of an existing policy. The likely reason for this specific amendment is to prolong the effect of existing measures that are in place. This extension, lasting until September 30, 2021, implies a continued assessment of an ongoing need to control the prices of these essential medical resources. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This is an amendment, therefore the focus is on the changes. * **Specific Part of Original Policy Changed:** Note a in the original order S.O. 3322E dated 25.09.2020 is being changed. * **New Rule/Provision:** The phrase "31st March 2021 or until further orders, whichever is earlier" is replaced with "30th September 2021 or until further orders, whichever is earlier". * **Difference/Effect of Change:** The effect of this change is to extend the period during which the price controls on Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas are in effect. The original expiration date was March 31, 2021, and the amendment extends it to September 30, 2021. This ensures continued price regulation for an additional six months (approximately). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** Based on the provided text, the target audience and stakeholders directly affected by this amendment include: * Manufacturers and suppliers of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO). * Manufacturers and suppliers of Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas in cylinders. * Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers that rely on these medical gases. * Patients and consumers who require Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), Department of Pharmaceuticals, and Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers are responsible for implementing and overseeing these price controls. * **Timelines or Procedures:** The amendment extends the existing price controls until September 30, 2021, or until further orders. The procedures outlined in the original order S.O. 3322E dated 25.09.2020 remain applicable. * **Specific to the changes:** The key aspect is the new timeline. Stakeholders need to be aware that the price controls are extended until the end of September. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcome of this amendment is to continue ensuring the affordability and availability of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas. By extending the price controls, the government aims to prevent price gouging and ensure that these essential medical gases remain accessible to those who need them. The potential impact is a stabilized market for these products and better access for patients. **9. Conclusion:** The notification from the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) extending price controls on Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and Oxygen Inhalation Medicinal gas until September 30, 2021, represents a significant continuation of existing policy. The amendment underscores the commitment to ensuring affordability and availability. This extension helps stabilize the market for essential medical gases, directly impacting suppliers, healthcare providers, and patients.

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