State to lay focus on rural healthcare, says Shandil

Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil emphasised the state government’s commitment to providing quality, accessible and affordable healthcare services. While reviewing healthcare schemes, he highlighted the ongoing initiative to upgrade health institutions in all 68 Assembly constituencies into Adarsh Swasthya Sansthans....

Tribune News Service

Shimla, Updated At : 05:00 AM Nov 28, 2024 IST

Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil reviews healthcare schemes in Shimla on Wednesday. Tribune Photo

Each upgraded facility will be equipped with six specialist doctors, paramedical staff, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. So far, 49 Sansthans have been staffed with four to six specialists, with efforts underway to complete the process for the remaining centres.

The minister directed officials to prioritise the timely completion of ongoing projects, particularly those with over 70% progress. He assured that the state government is committed to equipping health facilities with modern medical equipment and machinery.

Recognising the need for better healthcare in rural areas, Shandil underscored the importance of enhancing dental services and oral hygiene awareness. He announced plans to fill thousands of vacancies in the health sector, including posts for specialists, resident doctors, nurses and other paramedical staff. The government is also rationalising existing staff to ensure sufficient personnel in underserved regions.

Shandil urged officials to regularly inspect health institutions and ongoing projects to maintain quality standards. He reiterated the government’s dedication to strengthening healthcare services in rural and remote areas.

The review meeting was attended by Mission Director NHM Priyanka Verma, Deputy Mission Director NHM Dr. Gopal Beri, and other dignitaries.