 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 19: Dr Varinder Sharma, Co-convenor, Health Cell, J&K BJP, has warmly welcomed the inauguration of the 160-slice CT scan machine at SMGS Hospital, Shalamar, Jammu. Terming it a landmark step for healthcare in Jammu Division, Dr Sharma said the facility, installed at a cost of approximately ?8.30 crore, would prove to be a game-changer for SMGS Hospital, which he described as the backbone of gynaecology, ENT and paediatrics in the region. Dr Varinder emphasised that the availability of advanced CT diagnostics at SMGS would go a long way in eradicating the sufferings of patients, particularly by eliminating the serious risks earlier involved in shifting critically ill patients to outside facilities for emergency scans. He welcomed the news that an MRI facility has also been sanctioned for the hospital and is expected to be operational within two to three months.
He further commended the simultaneous inauguration of the new academic complex at CD Hospital, Bakshi Nagar, built at a cost of ?8.93 crore, stating that it would provide much-needed academic space for undergraduate and postgraduate doctors undergoing training in the region. However, Dr Sharma stressed the urgent need for the Health Department to audit and augment faculty and associated staff strength in Jammu hospitals, particularly GMC Jammu and its associated hospitals. He pointed out a stark disparity in faculty numbers between Kashmir-based and Jammu-based hospitals, despite Jammu institutions bearing the additional burden of catering to patients during the winter migration period. He appealed to the Health Department to address this imbalance on priority.
Dr Sharma also raised serious concern over the poor condition of the Jammu-Vijaypur highway leading to AIIMS Vijaypur, stating that it continues to cause immense hardship to patients and their attendants. Congratulating Member of Parliament and J&K BJP President, CA Sat Paul Sharma, on his election as a member of the Governing Body of AIIMS Vijaypur, Dr Sharma requested him to use his good offices at the highest level to ensure early completion of the road.
Concluding his statement, Dr Varinder Sharma lauded the overall efforts of the Government to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, and expressed hope that such initiatives would continue with greater pace and equity across both divisions. |
