The recent laying of foundation stones for 13 Critical Care Blocks (CCBs) across Jammu and Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks a significant step towards strengthening the region’s healthcare infrastructure. This initiative demonstrates the Government’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people in the UT. Jammu and Kashmir has consistently faced challenges in its healthcare system. Concerns have been raised regarding inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of medical professionals, and the accessibility of advanced medical care, particularly in remote areas. This has resulted in a significant burden on the existing facilities, often leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. The construction of CCBs in Government hospitals across both divisions of Jammu and Kashmir addresses these concerns head-on. These dedicated units, equipped with advanced equipment and specialised staff, will significantly enhance the capacity to handle critical medical cases. This will be particularly beneficial for patients suffering from severe illnesses and injuries requiring intensive care and monitoring. By bringing these facilities closer to the people, the initiative aims to reduce the need for travel to faraway hospitals, saving precious time and alleviating the burden on families.
In the past, due to terrorism and other factors, the healthcare sector in Jammu and Kashmir suffered greatly. Despite a significant increase in population, the medical infrastructure remained insufficient to meet the needs of all residents, particularly those in remote areas who had limited access to healthcare facilities. Recognising the severity of the situation, the current NDA Government has placed extraordinary emphasis on healthcare. Two AIIMS facilities have been allocated to Jammu and Kashmir, both of which are nearing completion, with outpatient services already underway. Additionally, Government Medical Colleges have been established in various districts, reducing the necessity for people to travel to major cities like Jammu or Srinagar for medical treatment. The introduction of mobile health units has further facilitated healthcare access in remote regions. The number of medical seats has doubled in recent years, reflecting efforts to address the shortage of healthcare professionals and enhance medical education opportunities. The Government’s primary focus is on establishing tertiary healthcare facilities, including separate Bone and Joint Hospitals and State Cancer Institutes in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions.
Comparing the current healthcare facilities to those available a decade ago reveals a significant improvement. There has been a manifold increase in healthcare infrastructure and services. While the process of providing healthcare facilities to all residents will take time, the Government is committed to sustained progress. The distribution of Ayushman cards to the entire population of Jammu and Kashmir is a noteworthy public-oriented initiative aimed at expanding healthcare coverage. Ample funds have been allocated to ensure the timely completion of all healthcare infrastructure projects. Over the past decade, there has been a complete transformation in the healthcare sector, significantly improving access to medical services. The Government continues to prioritise rural healthcare and is actively planning additional facilities to meet the needs of patients across the region.
These developments are commendable steps towards building a robust and accessible healthcare system in Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on healthcare infrastructure development resonates with the Government’s broader vision of transforming India’s healthcare landscape. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that these initiatives are stepping stones on a longer journey. Sustained efforts are required to ensure optimal utilisation of these facilities. A key focus should be on attracting and retaining qualified medical professionals. Additionally, investing in telemedicine and digital health services can bridge the geographical gap and provide access to specialist consultations in remote areas. The recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir’s healthcare landscape offer much better healthcare facilities shortly. By addressing infrastructure gaps, ensuring access to qualified professionals, and promoting preventive healthcare, the Government is making extraordinary efforts to create a sustainable and accessible healthcare system that caters to the needs of all the citizens.
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