Chandigarh's prestigious Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) commemorated the 77th Republic Day on Monday with a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony led by its director, Professor Vivek Lal. In his address, Prof Lal reflected on the institute's accomplishments over the past year and charted an ambitious course for the future, declaring 2025 as a "defining year" for PGI. He emphasized that this period would be crucial for consolidating gains and pushing forward with transformative initiatives in healthcare delivery.
Key Reforms and Operational Enhancements
A significant highlight of Prof Lal's speech was the expansion of operating theatre (OT) timings, which now function from 8 am to 8 pm daily. This strategic move has yielded impressive results, with Prof Lal reporting a substantial 30-40% reduction in surgical waiting lists. He commended the dedicated efforts of the departments of anaesthesia and surgery, whose collaboration has been instrumental in sustaining this extended schedule, thereby improving patient access to critical surgical procedures.
Advancements in Complex Clinical Care
Prof Lal also underscored PGI's pioneering work in organ transplantation, citing a recent renal transplant performed under challenging weather conditions as a testament to the institute's resilience and expertise. This achievement, he noted, further solidifies PGI's standing in the realm of complex clinical care, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in advanced medical interventions. He praised the healthcare personnel involved in Operation Sindoor, highlighting their readiness to support national healthcare needs whenever required.
Staff Welfare and Infrastructure Development
Addressing long-standing concerns, Prof Lal announced the resolution of promotion and service-related matters for technical and non-faculty staff, a move aimed at boosting morale and ensuring equitable treatment. He affectionately referred to resident doctors as the "karta-dharta" or backbone of the institute, assuring them that their issues would be handled with utmost sensitivity and promptness.
New Facility for Patient Attendants
In a significant infrastructure update, Prof Lal welcomed the upcoming Vishram Sadan, supported by the Adani Group. This facility, spanning 6,000 square meters, will provide free accommodation for patient attendants, alleviating financial burdens and enhancing comfort for families during medical treatments. This initiative represents a collaborative effort to improve patient-centric services without incurring costs to PGI.
Overall, the Republic Day celebrations at PGI Chandigarh served as a platform to showcase the institute's commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassionate care, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
