 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 9: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today emphasized on the need for timely referral of vacant posts to address shortages of doctors, paramedics and other support staff in healthcare institutions across Jammu and Kashmir.
The Health Minister made these remarks while chairing a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review the status of vacancies of different categories of posts at various levels and progress on referral of posts in Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) and Health and Medical department across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah; Principals of all GMCs (Srinagar, Jammu, Anantnag, Baramulla, Rajouri, Kathua, Doda, Udhampur and Handwara), Principal SKIMS Medical College, Director Health Services Jammu/Kashmir and other senior officers of the department, either in person or through video conferencing.
The meeting was held with an objective of review assessing the existing manpower gaps and expediting recruitment process to strengthen healthcare delivery at all levels.
During the meeting, the Minister emphasized on the need for timely referral of vacant posts to address shortages of doctors, paramedics and support staff in hospitals and medical institutions. She sought detailed updates on sanctioned posts, vacancies and the status of selections being processed through recruiting agencies.
Stressing that efficient human resource forms the backbone of the healthcare system, Sakeena Itoo directed officials to streamline procedures and remove bottlenecks delaying appointments as well as posting of specialists in deserving areas. "Cancel attachments of all doctors and paramedics and post them in areas facing acute shortage of staff", Minister Sakeena directed the officers.
She further asked all Principals of GMCs and Directors to ascertain the requirement of doctors and specialists in their respective medical institutions and make a proper plan for posting of required staff at these places. She also stressed on both Directors for rationalisation of staff in order to fill necessary manpower gaps of specialists in far flung areas.
The Minister also directed the Principals for timely finalisation of Recruitment rules for all categories of posts so that the process of recruitment is expedited and the vacant posts are filled timely.
While reviewing different aspects of health sector, Minister Sakeena also laid special emphasis on adopting a proactive and compassionate approach towards victims of drug abuse. She highlighted the need to strengthen de-addiction and rehabilitation services, ensure early identification of substance abuse cases and provide comprehensive medical, psychological and social support to affected individuals. |
