Patiala: Punjab health and family welfare minister Dr Balbir Singh on Tuesday conducted a surprise check at Civil Hospital Ropar. During the inspection, the minister took serious note of patients being prescribed medicines from outside the civil hospital, and issued a ‘show-cause notice’ to the concerned.He said Punjab govt is fully committed to providing quality healthcare services to the people of the state and in line with this commitment, the govt has implemented a policy of providing free medicines and diagnostic tests to needy patients. He further mentioned that the department has already procured around 400 types of medicines in its warehouse, and if any additional medicine is required, it is mandatory that it be made available through the hospital itself. Dr Balbir Singh also emphasised that keeping in view the convenience of the public, the basic infrastructure of govt hospitals across Punjab is being strengthened.
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New hospital buildings are being constructed and old ones are being renovated. Sharing updates on recruitment in the health department, he said that to improve the efficiency and capacity of govt hospitals, staff recruitment is underway, and 1,000 doctors will soon be recruited. Additionally, to reduce patient inconvenience, the number of registration counters is being increased to minimise waiting times. The minister reiterated that continuous efforts are being made to build a healthy and drug-free Punjab. To identify and address any shortcomings in the healthcare system, he is personally visiting govt hospitals and ensuring prompt corrective action is taken wherever needed.
