In a clear signal of his administration’s commitment to improving public health infrastructure, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted a surprise inspection of the Government Doon Medical College Hospital on Saturday evening. The unannounced visit was a direct effort to assess the ground realities of patient care, sanitation, and the overall efficiency of health services within one of the state’s most prominent medical facilities.
Our correspondent adds that the surprise nature of the visit caught hospital staff off-guard, allowing the Chief Minister to witness the routine operations and real-time conditions without any prior arrangements.
Upon his arrival, Chief Minister Dhami bypassed the typical formalities and engaged directly with patients and their attendants. He moved through various wards, including the Emergency Ward and the Blood Sample Collection Centre, to gain firsthand insights into the quality of medical services. He spoke with individuals receiving treatment, inquiring about their well-being, the care they were receiving, and any challenges they faced. This direct interaction was a key component of the visit, underscoring the government’s focus on patient-centric healthcare.
The Chief Minister’s assessment was not limited to clinical care. He also focused on the environment and ancillary services provided to the general public. During his inspection of the waiting areas, he noted the need for improved amenities for attendants. He issued a directive to the hospital administration to immediately address the lack of adequate seating, clean drinking water, and proper ventilation. He emphasized that these small details significantly contribute to the emotional and physical comfort of families and caregivers, who are often under immense stress.
Furthermore, our correspondent reports that CM Dhami stressed the importance of maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and sanitation. He instructed officials to ensure that regular sanitization, painting, and maintenance work is carried out consistently. He remarked that a clean and well-maintained hospital provides a positive and dignified environment for healing.
Another critical aspect of the Chief Minister’s visit was his review of the state’s flagship healthcare scheme, the Atal Ayushman Uttarakhand Yojana. He visited the scheme’s Help Desk at the hospital and spoke with staff to understand the process of card issuance, claim settlement, and the level of assistance provided to beneficiaries. He also took the opportunity to speak with patients who were utilizing the scheme to hear about their experiences directly. This interaction highlighted the government’s determination to ensure that the benefits of this vital program reach every eligible citizen without any hurdles.
The visit comes at a crucial time for Uttarakhand’s healthcare sector. The state government has placed a strong emphasis on strengthening medical infrastructure, particularly in the face of natural disasters and the ongoing public health challenges. The Chief Minister’s actions align with his administration’s goal of making quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all residents, especially those in rural and remote areas.
CM Dhami’s inspection concluded with a clear message to the hospital administration, doctors, and staff: ensure that transparency, sensitivity, and prompt service are at the forefront of all operations. He reiterated that his government is committed to providing all necessary resources to achieve a robust and responsive healthcare system, and that all personnel should work with a sense of dedication and service. The visit serves as a reminder that the health and well-being of the public remain a top priority for the state.
