Says no plans to upgrade PHC Boniyar to CHC
Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Mar 25 (KNO): The government of Jammu and Kashmir said on Tuesday that the Thanamandi hospital in Rajouri continues to function as a Primary Health Centre (PHC) despite its upgrade to a Community Health Center (CHC) in 1999.
Replying to the question of MLA Muzaffar Iqbal Khan, Health and Medical Education Department Minister Sakina Itoo, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that PHC Thanamandi was upgraded to the level of CHC vide Government Order No. 30-HME of 1999 dated 02.02.1999 without the creation of posts, therefore it is functioning with existing sanctioned staff strength of a PHC.
“Currently, against 3 sanctioned doctor posts, 2 are filled, and of 21 paramedical staff, 16 are in place at CHC Thanamandi,” she said, adding that the creation of additional posts will be discussed with the Finance Department.
The minister further said that the department is working on strengthening 4,000 existing health institutions at various levels to provide quality healthcare, while the upgradation of PHC Boniyar to CHC level is not currently under consideration.
“In the Medical Block Boniyar, 36 health institutions (including PHC Boniyar), comprising 3 PHCs, 5 NTPHCs and 28 sub-centres are functional in Medical Block Boniyar,” she said.
Replying to another question of MLA Dr Sajjad Shafi, the health minister said, “CHC Uri is a 30-bedded functional facility with major machinery & equipment available, which inter-alia includes: Operation Theatre equipment, Laboratory equipment Labour Room equipment Ward equipment, Diagnostic Imaging equipment (X-ray, USG, ECG) and Basic OPD equipment while a 12-bedded Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) established under National Health Mission.”
Itoo said steps are being taken to enhance facilities in the block. “Block Public Health Lab is being established in SDH Uri and the work is awarded, drawing has been finalised and the work will start in a week, dialysis units are being established in all CHCs/SDHs in the next two years and the department has prioritised high-end diagnostic equipment like MRI & CT Scan for Government Medical Colleges and District Hospital in a phased manner,” the minister said—(KNO)
