Himachal Pradesh Set to Transform Healthcare with Rs 1570 Crore Initiative

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a pivotal Rs 1570 crore investment poised to revolutionize healthcare in Himachal Pradesh. Modern equipment, upgraded medical colleges, and a Cancer Care Centre of Excellence aim to curtail patient migration, bolster local treatments, and promote medical tourism in the state.

In a bold move to enhance the healthcare sector, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu revealed on Monday that the Congress government is committing Rs 1570 crore to acquire cutting-edge medical equipment. This initiative aims to address the exodus of 9.50 lakh patients seeking treatment outside the state, costing Rs 1350 crore in GDP annually.

The Chief Minister emphasized upgrading medical colleges with advanced robotic surgery facilities in various departments like Neurology and Oncology, which will diminish doctors' workloads and enhance patient care. Notably, plans are underway to install modern PET Scan and MRI machines at key medical institutions.

The government also plans to establish a Cancer Care Centre of Excellence at Dr Radhakrishnan Government Medical College in Hamirpur with Rs 300 crore funding. The facility will feature a cyclotron machine and 150 beds dedicated to cancer care. The broader strategy includes upgrading 69 healthcare facilities with enhanced care capabilities and safety measures.

Special attention is devoted to developing in-house laboratories and modular operation theatres in hospitals across the state. These upgrades are anticipated to alleviate patient migration and foster medical tourism. Chief Minister Sukhu reassured that additional funding would be provided if necessary, reaffirming the government's commitment to world-class healthcare at citizens' doorsteps.

Present at the announcement were Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, alongside government officials and MLAs. The initiative spotlights the state's resolve to advance healthcare infrastructure and service delivery.

(With inputs from agencies.)