Shimla, Dec 20,
Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare system is in need of significant improvement, according to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Responding to a question raised by BJP member Deep Raj during the Question Hour on Friday, the CM acknowledged the state’s position as being at the lower end of health service delivery and highlighted several areas for improvement.
Sukhu informed that the government is currently offering 133 free medical tests across all hospitals in the state. This includes the expansion of free test facilities at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla, where the number of free tests has been increased from 56 to 133.
While admitting to the existing shortcomings in the state’s healthcare services, the Chief Minister assured that the state government plans to develop 50 model hospitals to address these issues. He also noted that while patients have the option of opting for private medical tests outside of IGMC due to the availability of several private laboratories, the government remains focused on extending these health services to remote and underserved areas.
Sukhu further addressed the issue of staffing, stating that the government is committed to filling vacancies, such as that of a radiographer at Karsog Hospital, once the new batch of staff is deployed. He emphasized the state’s commitment to improving healthcare facilities, despite the challenges posed by limited resources.
Earlier, BJP member Deep Raj raised concerns about patients in Karsog, who are often forced to travel to IGMC Shimla for medical treatment, incurring high costs and facing challenges such as a lack of accommodation for attendants. Raj urged the government to expand free testing services at IGMC for indoor patients. He also pointed out the shortage of a radiographer and medical testing facilities at Karsog Hospital, which has led to patients being referred to private clinics for tests and X-rays, sometimes involving unofficial commissions.
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