DDC Poonch reviews delivery of health services in the district

POONCH, JANUARY 11: The District Development Commissioner (DDC) Poonch, Vikas Kundal, who also serves as the Chairman of the District Health Society Poonch chaired a meeting on Saturday with senior health officials to review the activities and progress of healthcare services in the district.

The DDC initiated the meeting with a comprehensive review of achievements under various health schemes, the functioning of health institutions, infrastructure upgrades and the healthcare facilities available to patients.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Poonch, Dr. Parvez Ahmed Khan, provided an in-depth briefing on the health department’s operations, including the status of block-wise healthcare centers, infrastructure, human resources in the health sector, and departmental achievements.

During the meeting, the DDC evaluated the operation of outpatient departments (OPD), Ambulance services, staff rationalization under the National Health Mission (NHM), maintenance of monthly reports and the implementation of key health programs such as Janani Suraksha Yojana, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, National Tuberculosis Control Program, Anemia Mukt Bharat and Jan Aushadhi Kendras, Ni-kshay Mitra etc.

Regarding staff management, the DDC strictly instructed all concerned not to attach any health staff without prior approval from competent authorities.

To ensure better healthcare services, the DDC proposed a rotation system to be implemented weekly in underserved areas. He also directed the initiation of surgical services in Surankote, Mendhar and Mandi Sub District Hospitals to bring health services closer to the public.

To enhance institutional deliveries at the block level, the DDC instructed officials to effectively utilize the services of ASHAs to encourage pregnant women and their families to use emergency services (108 and 102) for safe deliveries. He also called for increased emphasis on immunization efforts.

Additionally, the DDC mandated thorough inspections of ultrasound centers, insisting on regular monitoring of their operations. He cautioned that any illegal practices, such as sex determination and non-maintenance of records, would not be tolerated and strict action would be initiated against violators.

DDC urged health functionaries to meet the expectations of patients and focus on delivering quality, accessible and affordable healthcare. He stressed that punctuality and maintaining hygienic conditions in health facilities are essential and that any laxity in these areas would be unacceptable.

Emphasizing the need for coordination among senior health officials and line departments, the DDC urged for expedited efforts in upgrading healthcare infrastructure. He directed officers to closely monitor the progress of ongoing works to ensure timely completion for the benefit of the public.