The Lieutenant Governor recently highlighted the significant improvements in healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir over the past three to four years, attributing them to substantial infrastructural development in the sector. The administration has ensured that specialised treatment is available in various districts through GMCs, which has reduced the need for people to travel to Jammu or Srinagar for medical care. That’s remarkable progress in the healthcare infrastructure of Jammu and Kashmir since 2019. The establishment of seven Medical Colleges, two AIIMS, eight Nursing Colleges, two Cancer Institutes, and two Bone and Joint Hospitals reflects a significant investment in improving healthcare facilities and services in the region. The addition of Medical Colleges and AIIMS institutions is instrumental in training and producing a larger number of qualified doctors and healthcare professionals, more than double the number a few years ago. The establishment of nursing colleges contributes to building a skilled nursing workforce, which is crucial for providing comprehensive patient care and support in healthcare settings.
Every shortcoming of the past few decades has been taken care of by the present administration. The establishment of dedicated Cancer Institutes has changed the lives of patients, as there is no need to travel to other parts of the country to get specialised treatment as advanced cancer treatment modalities, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions, are all available in the State Cancer Institutes at Jammu and Srinagar. Similarly, ultramodern Bone and Joint Hospitals are now operational and providing specialised treatment for conditions related to bones, joints, and musculoskeletal disorders with state-of-the-art diagnostic facilities, surgical interventions, and rehabilitation services, thus enhancing the overall quality of orthopaedic healthcare in the region.
Initiatives are taken to enhance rural healthcare by strengthening the network of ASHA workers and implementing innovative strategies such as the T3-Test, Treat, and Talk Anaemia Camps. These camps prioritise the delivery of diagnostic tests, appropriate treatment, as well as counselling and education to individuals affected by anaemia, all within the comfort of their homes. Additionally, technology is being utilised through the Scan and Share system, enabling patients to digitally register for outpatient services and upload their documents or information. This approach reduces the reliance on paperwork, leading to more efficient resource utilisation.
While there may be some challenges, such as the shortage of faculty in new GMCs, efforts are being made to address this issue as well. It’s commendable that the aim is to deliver health services to the last person in need. By focusing on expanding healthcare infrastructure and addressing staffing challenges, the authorities are working towards achieving this goal. Some of the most renowned mega hospital chains in the country have already established their facilities in Srinagar, and many more such projects are in the pipeline to establish Medi-cities. With the kind of climate of UT and substantial healthcare infrastructure and facilities available, Jammu and Kashmir will be a major centre of Health Tourism within a few years.
These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to improving healthcare services, promoting preventive care, and leveraging technology for better patient outcomes. By focusing on preventive measures, early intervention, and efficient processes, the health system in Jammu and Kashmir has become more resilient and better equipped to meet the healthcare needs of the population.
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