PGI Chandigarh's Advanced Neurosciences Centre Conducts Successful OPD Trial Run
The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) in Chandigarh achieved a significant milestone with the successful trial run of the Outpatient Department (OPD) at its new Advanced Neurosciences Centre (ANC) on Monday. This dry run, which registered a total of 581 patients, served as a crucial test of the infrastructure and systems ahead of the centre's formal inauguration scheduled for April 30.
Patient Registration and Initial Feedback
Of the 581 patients seen during the trial, 181 were new registrations, while 400 were follow-up cases. The shift from the previous cramped facility to the spacious Level 2 of the ANC provided immediate relief to patients, who reported a noticeable reduction in overcrowding and the typical "jostling" associated with PGI. Patients expressed satisfaction with enhanced amenities, including cleaner restrooms, efficient lift access, and adequate seating arrangements.
Administration's Perspective and Operational Plans
Prof Vivek Lal, Director of PGI, described the trial as a major step towards patient-centric facilities. "This is a significant step towards patient-centric facilities. The dry run allows us to refine the system and address any operational gaps before the formal opening," he stated. Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), added that the team is currently streamlining specialised parking zones and designated routes to ensure seamless patient movement.
Identified Challenges and Solutions
Despite the positive feedback, the trial run revealed several "teething troubles" that need addressing:
- The absence of a functional token system caused minor confusion during patient waits.
- While X-ray units are being activated, the reception, security desks, and specialised lab counters are not yet fully operational.
- Many visitors struggled to locate designated parking areas, leading to temporary bottlenecks.
To assist with navigation, 10 student volunteers from the Govt Model Senior Secondary School (GMSSS), Sector 23, will be deployed as "Sarthis" (guides) starting Tuesday.
Operational Schedule and Access Details
The PGI administration has released the operational schedule for the new centre:
- Neurology OPD: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
- Special Clinic: Thursday, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Neurosurgery OPD: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
The Trauma OPD will continue to operate from its existing location for now. Patients and attendants can access the new Advanced Neurosciences Centre via Gate No. 3, located near the SBI Bank and Gol Market. Signage and help desks have been installed to guide visitors to the facility.
Comparative Patient Data
The trial run's patient numbers show a shift from previous operations. For comparison, neurology patients seen in the New OPD earlier included 650 total patients on April 15 (187 new, 463 old) and 681 total on April 17 (215 new, 466 old). In contrast, the ANC trial on April registered 581 total patients (181 new, 400 old), indicating a streamlined process in the new setting.
