Says “Robust primary, secondary care can decongest tertiary institutions”
Srinagar : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thusrday called for a balanced and integrated healthcare strategy that combines the development of advanced quaternary care with strengthening of primary and secondary healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the valedictory function of the Quaternary Healthcare & Research Summit, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of enhancing tertiary healthcare to a quaternary level while simultaneously strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery. The three-day summit, organized by the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in collaboration with prominent institutions like AIIMS and PGIMER, focused on developing a national strategy for advanced care. The Chief Minister highlighted that quality healthcare is a fundamental government obligation and that the medical profession requires continuous learning and innovation. He pointed out that while quaternary healthcare could alleviate pressures on tertiary institutions, it would not resolve existing issues unless the primary and secondary healthcare systems were also improved. He cited routine surgeries as examples of the burden placed on tertiary facilities due to deficiencies in lower-tier healthcare. Omar Abdullah expressed the need for quality healthcare access beyond urban centers, advocating for a robust primary and secondary healthcare system alongside advanced quaternary care. He reiterated the goal of ensuring that patients in Jammu and Kashmir do not need to seek advanced treatment outside the region, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure in retaining skilled healthcare professionals. The Chief Minister called for efforts to facilitate a “reverse brain drain,” encouraging J&K-trained doctors abroad to return and contribute to local healthcare. He stressed that the recommendations from the summit should lead to practical implementations rather than remaining theoretical. The event served as a platform for collaboration among healthcare institutions and policymakers, aiming to improve healthcare delivery in J&K. The Chief Minister also released a book and presented awards during the ceremony, which was attended by various dignitaries and healthcare professionals.
