India’s apex medical research body, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with the National Health Authority and the World Health Organisation (WHO), has launched 32 new standard treatment workflows (STWs) for the management of common and serious diseases across five medical specialties.

These new guidelines cover cardiothoracic vascular surgery, pediatric cardiology, interventional radiology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics. They build on 125 STWs previously issued in 23 specialties in 2019 and 2022.

Standard Treatment Workflows (STWs) are evidence-based guidelines designed to standardise the treatment of various diseases and medical conditions in India.

These workflows have been developed in collaboration with national experts to ensure optimal treatment methods, rational drug use, and efficient healthcare services.

Each STW is a concise document that outlines key actions for physicians, and promotes uniform healthcare standards across the public healthcare system.

STWs enhance the quality of care, improve patient outcomes, and help health care professionals effectively follow best practices.

Each guideline is a concise one-page document outlining the actions required of doctors to ensure consistent healthcare standards across India’s public health system.

Speaking at the launch of Volume-IV STW at ICMR, Dr VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog (India’s think tank), said these evidence-based workflows ensure that patients receive the right treatment and help healthcare professionals follow guidelines effectively.

ICMR Director General Dr Rajiv Bahl said these standard protocols save lives and improve the quality of care. “By incorporating these workflows in medical education right from the beginning, we strengthen the foundation of our healthcare professionals,” said Dr Bahl.