AJK Health Minister Inspects DHQ Bhimber, Orders Action PlanAzad Kashmir

Dr Abbasi directed the hospital administration to implement a comprehensive strategy so that the public receives real relief. He said quality medical facilities must be provided in line with the vision of the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, with better care for patients and easier access to treatment. He added that every patient visiting the hospital must receive facilities without discrimination, and that doctors and medical staff should perform their duties with a spirit of service.

The minister said public health is among the government’s top priorities, and the treatment system in government hospitals is being improved through modern medical equipment, essential machinery, medicines and manpower. He said effective steps would be taken to give special relief to the people of Bhimber district in the health sector.

The visit also included a detailed briefing on the project to set up a modern cath lab at DHQ Hospital Bhimber. Officials told the minister that work is under way to give practical shape to the project with substantial funds, and that the building and other necessary arrangements form part of the plan. The minister reviewed progress on the project and stressed its timely completion so that people can receive modern cardiac treatment close to home.

Officials also briefed the minister on funding allocated for the hospital’s overall improvement, including a grant of around Rs970 million. The briefing covered around Rs102 million for human resources, funds for electromechanical needs and other medical and administrative facilities, a biomedical plan worth around Rs300 million, and a new approval of Rs30 million.

The planned equipment includes an echo machine, high and medium monitors, cardiac monitors, ICU beds, ECG machines, blood pressure sets, ETT machines, wheelchairs, X-ray machines and other essential medical instruments. Improvements to the operation theatre, the ITC and other departments, along with electromechanical equipment and the availability of office and medical staff, are also under consideration.

The minister directed the relevant authorities to ensure transparency, quality and adherence to timelines in all projects so that the benefits of the allocated funds reach the public directly. He said the short, medium and long-term plan, along with the government’s 100-day plan, would bring further facilities to the people.

He also laid stress on making hospital administration, cleanliness, patient care and staff attendance more effective. The minister praised Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Tariq Farooq for his special interest and efforts for the improvement of the health sector in Bhimber, saying his work for public service and the development of the area deserves appreciation.

Speaking to the media, Dr Abbasi said efforts are under way to bring hospitals across Azad Kashmir towards improvement on a priority basis, and that practical steps are being accelerated to provide better, quality and modern medical facilities to the public. He also inspected the hospital’s population welfare centre, where District Officer Samar Ali Khan briefed him on its work.