KASHMIR GLORY DESK
RAJOURI, DECEMBER 19: Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Vikas Kundal, conducted a comprehensive review of the initiatives and programs of the Health Department during a meeting held today. The meeting served as a platform to assess the progress and effectiveness of various healthcare schemes and to strategize the way forward in enhancing healthcare accessibility and eradicating infectious diseases in the district.
One of the key highlights of the meeting was the discussion on the operational Jan Aushidi Kendras. These Kendras, established to provide affordable generic medicines to the public, have proven to be instrumental in ensuring that essential medications are accessible to all. The meeting acknowledged the presence of five functional Jan Aushidi Kendras, and a special mention was made of the collaboration between the Health Department and the Cooperative Department in setting up a Kendra at PHC Manjakote.
The meeting also shed light on the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), the advanced disease surveillance system launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. IHIP, a refined version of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), is expected to revolutionize disease surveillance and enhance public health response. Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal emphasized the significance of the IHIP and directed the officers to maximize its potential in ensuring efficient disease monitoring and control.
Recognizing the transformative impact of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which aims to provide universal healthcare coverage, Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal reviewed the progress made in the distribution of Ayushman PVC cards. These durable cards, made from polyvinyl chloride material, ensure easy portability and quick access to healthcare benefits for the beneficiaries. Stressing the crucial role of the Health Department in expediting the distribution process, Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal directed the officers to intensify their efforts and ensure the timely completion of the distribution process.
Meanwhile, in the pursuit of eliminating Tuberculosis (TB), Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Vikas Kundal chaired a District Tuberculosis Forum meeting to assess the progress of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) in the district. The NTEP, a vital component of the National Health Mission, plays a pivotal role in India’s fight against Tuberculosis. The meeting highlighted the objectives and functioning of the TB Forum and discussed the achievements of the program within the district. Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal underscored the gravity of Tuberculosis as a leading infectious disease and called for concerted efforts to effectively implement the NTEP in the district.
A significant aspect of the discussion was the emphasis on registering all TB patients under the Ni-kshayMitras scheme. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to TB patients, including nutritional aid, additional diagnostic assistance, and vocational support. By ensuring the inclusion of all TB patients under this scheme, the Health Department endeavors to provide holistic care and support to individuals affected by this debilitating disease.
Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal directed the Block Medical Officers to promote institutional deliveries over home deliveries. Stressing the benefits of institutional deliveries, he emphasized the importance of creating awareness among the public regarding the advantages and safety precautions associated with institutional births. This proactive approach aims to enhance maternal and child healthcare outcomes in the district.
Furthermore, Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal reviewed the progress of various other important schemes, including Janni Suraksha Yojana (JSY), and developmental projects undertaken by the Health Department. He directed the concerned officers to ensure the timely completion of these projects while maintaining the highest quality standards.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Medical Officer Dr. Rajinder Sharma, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Manohar Rana, and Block Medical Officers.
