Haryana Health Minister Conducts Surprise Inspection at PGIMS Rohtak, Issues Key Directives
In a move to enhance healthcare services, Haryana Health Minister Aarti Singh Rao carried out an unannounced inspection of the Chaudhary Ranbir Singh Outpatient Department (OPD) at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS) in Rohtak on Saturday afternoon. The minister's visit focused on improving patient care, reducing wait times, and addressing systemic inefficiencies.
Streamlining Diagnostic Services for Faster Treatment
Minister Rao began her inspection by examining the CT scan and MRI machine rooms, which operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Expressing concern over delays, she issued strict orders that patients must receive their MRI and CT scan reports within one day, instead of the current three to four days. She emphasised that timely reports are crucial for doctors to initiate treatment promptly, stating, "Reports play a vital role in treatment, and any delay can compromise patient outcomes."
Addressing Overcrowding and Infrastructure Issues
During her visit to the X-ray department, the minister reviewed its operations and expressed satisfaction with the promptness of services. However, at the orthopaedics OPD, she noted displeasure with the overcrowding in room number 75, where patients were gathered for blood samples. Directing officials to ensure prompt treatment, she instructed that additional lab technicians and data entry operators be deployed in the OPD to expedite sample collection and reduce long queues.
Inspecting the toilets, Minister Rao found a lack of cleanliness and issued strict instructions for them to be cleaned three times daily during OPD hours. She stressed that maintaining hygienic facilities is essential for patient dignity and infection control.
Medicine Shortages and Committee Formation
Interacting with patients, Minister Rao inquired about the treatment provided at PGIMS. One patient reported that many medicines were unavailable. Officials informed her that currently, only 200 types of medicines are stocked at the institute. In response, the minister directed the formation of a committee to investigate why only 200 medicines are being procured when the government makes over 500 types available. She highlighted the need to bridge this gap to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Future Inspections and Staffing Improvements
The minister also inspected the OPDs of the gynaecology, super speciality, and surgery departments. She announced plans to return soon for another surprise inspection of the wards, underscoring her commitment to ongoing oversight. Speaking to mediapersons, Minister Rao stated, "My priority is to ensure patients receive prompt, high-quality treatment, and I will leave no stone unturned for this." She added that new bond doctors will soon join PGIMS, which is expected to largely address the shortage of medical staff.
This inspection reflects the Haryana government's efforts to bolster healthcare infrastructure and patient services at key medical institutions like PGIMS Rohtak.
