Chief Minister Hemant Soren seeks to enhance Jharkhand’s healthcare by mandating 24/7 care services in district hospitals equipped with advanced facilities.
RANCHI – Despite the efforts of the state in making adequate preparations for snakebite incidents as monsoon season commences, the Chief Minister voiced concern over the rise in snakebite-related fatalities, which have surpassed 45.
To prevent such tragedies, he has instructed the responsible departments to hold doctors accountable by issuing show-cause notices.
The Chief Minister’s decision comes after a high-level review meeting of the Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare Department.
To deter locals from seeking care at larger hospitals outside the state, Hemant Soren has stressed the importance of improving and modernizing facilities at community hospitals.
Soren’s directives include the provision of round-the-clock medical services at all Sadar Hospitals across the divisions, starting with Dumka. These hospitals, including the 300-bed Sadar Hospital in Dumka, will be equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment capabilities, facilitated by specialized doctors and paramedical staff working in shifts to ensure uninterrupted service.
The Chief Minister has underscored the need to expedite the hiring process of medical professionals. He suggested hiring doctors on a contract basis for smooth operation of the healthcare system, especially under challenging conditions.
Another noteworthy aspect of Soren’s plan is the rapid implementation of the Panchayat level medical store programme in as many panchayats across the state as possible.
The program’s execution is overseen by experts in mercury medicine.
Concerns were also raised about hospitals’ nonchalant attitude towards patient care under Ayushman Bharat. To ensure uninterrupted patient treatment, the Chief Minister has authorized the swift settlement of pending payments to hospitals.
In addition, he has proposed to include individuals with an annual income of less than Rs. 8 lakh, regardless of whether they have an Ayushman card or ration card, to be eligible for treatment under the Chief Minister’s Critical Illness Scheme.
Construction works at the state’s medical institutions need to be completed promptly, emphasized the Chief Minister.
Any construction firm that fails to adhere to deadlines, such as those in charge of the hostels at RIMS, Hazaribagh Medical College, and Palamu, will be dismissed.
Finally, for effective and timely ambulance services, the Chief Minister demanded the regular and efficient operation of all 206 ambulances without any delays.
