Karnataka Health Minister Issues Strict Directives for Quality Healthcare
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundurao has issued firm instructions to health officials, emphasizing that every resident of Karnataka must receive quality healthcare services, regardless of their economic status. The minister stressed that government hospitals need significant improvements to meet this goal.
Progress Review Meeting in Kalaburagi
Minister Gundurao was speaking at a progress review meeting of the Health and Family Welfare Department at the Kalaburagi division-level. The meeting took place at the Zilla Panchayat hall in the city on Monday. He highlighted that doctors must ensure patient services are not compromised due to shortages of medical equipment or medicines in government facilities.
Addressing Delays and Infrastructure Issues
Expressing dissatisfaction over the prolonged process of separating Kalaburagi District Hospital from the Government Medical College, the minister directed officials to complete this separation immediately. He also announced that approval will be granted soon for establishing a human resource and medicine storage centre required for the new Vijayanagara district.
Tackling Medicine Shortages and TB Testing Problems
Regarding delays in medicine supply in Bidar and Yadgir districts, as well as shortages from KSM SCL and a lack of CBNAAT cartridges in Koppal hindering TB patient examinations, Minister Gundurao questioned officials and demanded remedial measures. He insisted that such issues must not recur, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare access.
Concern Over Maternal Mortality Rates
The minister revealed alarming statistics, noting that in the current year 2025-26, up to the end of December, 90 Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) cases were recorded in the department. He expressed particular concern over 28 maternal deaths in Kalaburagi district alone. Gundurao called for in-depth analysis of each death case to identify and rectify lapses.
"To reduce maternal mortality, we must increase hospital deliveries in the future," the minister asserted. He instructed officials to create awareness at the community level to promote safer childbirth practices and improve overall maternal health outcomes across the state.
