Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Dec 5: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that his Government will ensure the immediate restoration of autonomy to the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura.
He made these remarks during the 42nd Annual Day of SKIMS, attended by his cabinet ministers and officials from the Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department.
He emphasized that the step is essential to “save” the premier healthcare institute of Jammu and Kashmir and enable it to serve the people better.
“I understand that the loss of autonomy has adversely impacted patient care at this premier institution. I have assured the Director of SKIMS that I will ensure the immediate restoration of autonomy in consultation with Sakeena Masood,” Omar said.
The Chief Minister acknowledged SKIMS’ significant contributions to healthcare in J&K despite challenges such as limited funding, outdated equipment, and staff shortages.
He highlighted specific challenges stemming from the lack of autonomy, particularly issues related to maintenance and operational efficiency. Click here to watch video
“When the engineering wing is not under the hospital’s control, essential maintenance suffers. For example, I was informed about a recent blackout during which critical care patients had to be managed manually-ventilators and respiratory systems failed for several minutes,” he said.
Omar asserted that restoring autonomy would prevent such incidents in the future.
The Chief Minister also addressed challenges in procurement processes, noting that SKIMS faces delays due to reliance on the Jammu & Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (JKMSCL).
“Procurement through JKMSCL is cumbersome and time-consuming, leading to shortages of essential supplies. A streamlined process will be devised in consultation with the H&ME Department,” he assured.
On staffing, Omar expressed shock over the lack of recruitment in some departments for over a decade.
He pointed out the severe shortage of nursing staff, saying, “For instance, I was told that during the night, one nurse is responsible for at least 30 beds. This situation must change.”
Omar stressed the need for expanding infrastructure, modernizing equipment, and alleviating patient load, emphasizing that SKIMS must remain focused on tertiary-level procedures.
Addressing the overwhelming influx of patients, Omar noted that many are referred to SKIMS from peripheral healthcare facilities for minor issues.
“This isn’t your fault; it is ours. Peripheral facilities often transfer cases like normal deliveries or appendicitis here, adding to your burden. You cannot turn them away, and you don’t,” he said.
The Annual Day event included over a dozen felicitations and certificate distributions, a detail that even amused the Chief Minister.
The event also witnessed the release of the annual report, a report on SKIMS’ 100-day journey, and the launch of an Antimicrobial Policy.
The foundation stones for a sports ground and transport yard were laid, while the e-inauguration of an attendants’ inn at a maternity wing, main block, a 4-D CT simulator, and a day-care ward at the State Cancer Institute also took place.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
