Govt Working to Improve Healthcare in Remote Areas Amid Doctor Shortages
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD): The Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department has confirmed that no trauma hospital will be established at Tikri, Udhampur, citing the availability of existing facilities at GMC Udhampur and GMC Jammu. However, the government is considering setting up an accident hospital at Manwal, pending consultations with stakeholders and adherence to Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) norms.
The response came during an Assembly session where MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania raised concerns over inadequate healthcare infrastructure in remote areas like Dudu, Latti, Basantgarh, Panchari, and Moungri. Officials assured that PHCs in these regions are being strengthened with lab testing, X-ray services, and ambulances to improve emergency response.
Medical Officer Shortage a Concern
Despite efforts to boost healthcare, the shortage of medical officers remains a challenge, with nearly 30% of positions still vacant. To address this, the government has:
Posted 17 new medical officers in Udhampur health institutions,
Started recruitment for 181 additional doctors via the JKPSC,
Planned to deploy 91 candidates from a waitlist to underserved areas.
Fillin2g Paramedical Vacancies
The government is also addressing non-gazetted paramedical staff shortages, referring 292 vacancies to the Directorate of Family Welfare and 290 to the Directorate of Health Services, Jammu.
New Measures to Retain Doctors
To ensure medical professionals remain in remote areas, the government is considering financial incentives, improved housing, and career growth opportunities. A bond system may be introduced, requiring doctors to serve in rural areas for a fixed tenure, with possible disciplinary action for non-compliance.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening healthcare access in far-flung areas, ensuring better medical services for residents in remote regions of Jammu and Kashmir.(DD)
