CS reviews implementation of key reforms to revamp healthcare in J&K

Jammu: A high-level meeting was chaired by Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo to take assessment of the steps taken by the Department of Health & Medical Education (H&ME) as part of an ongoing and sustained process to chart a comprehensive and transformative roadmap for healthcare reforms as recommended from time to time by NITI Aayog. The meeting witnessed the participation of senior officers of the Health & Medical Education Department and other key stakeholders, focusing on accelerating systemic reforms, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and enhancing service delivery across the Union Territory. A forward-looking and integrated strategy was deliberated upon to transform the healthcare landscape through technology infusion, institutional collaboration, capacity building, and robust public health systems.
Addressing the meetiChief Secretary Atal Dulloo emphasized the significance of ongoing collaboration with NITI Aayog to enhance institutional support for the Health & Medical Education Department’s initiatives in Jammu & Kashmir. He expressed satisfaction with the successful outcomes of previous partnerships and highlighted the need for continued efforts to strengthen medical education capacity, particularly in securing additional MBBS and postgraduate seats. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary reviewed the progress of key healthcare initiatives, focusing on upgrading existing facilities and introducing specialized services. He stressed the importance of timely execution, optimal resource utilization, and inter-departmental coordination to improve health outcomes for the population. Commissioner Secretary M. Raju outlined major reform initiatives aimed at ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all. The reform strategy prioritizes the expansion of medical education through collaboration with institutions like AIIMS and Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences. This includes structured faculty exchanges, joint research, and the establishment of virtual medical boards. To address critical care gaps, Tele-ICU services will be implemented using a hub-and-spoke model, with the tendering process already initiated. Additionally, Tele-Radiology services are planned to enhance diagnostics and specialist consultations. Three thematic working groups have been established to focus on service delivery, medical education, and integrated emergency systems, aiming to strengthen healthcare systems in a coordinated manner. In food safety, a comprehensive strategy is being developed in collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to enhance enforcement mechanisms, particularly with the tourism season approaching. A comprehensive cancer care strategy is also being developed in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research, which includes establishing a cancer registry and molecular oncology centers. The meeting reviewed initiatives for drug de-addiction and mental health under the “Circle of Care” model, with over 900 trained counselors and plans for a UT-wide survey on substance use disorders. Further discussions included the development of liver transplant services in collaboration with the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, as well as the expansion of dental and preventive healthcare services. The meeting emphasized the need to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, manpower, and digital systems, with expedited recruitment processes and budgetary support to address existing gaps. The commitment to a patient-centric, technology-driven healthcare system was reaffirmed, with immediate priorities set for operationalizing Tele-ICU and Tele-Radiology services. Efforts will continue to enhance specialized care, particularly in oncology and transplant services, while also accelerating reforms in food safety enforcement to improve public health outcomes across Jammu & Kashmir.