Punjab Health Department Takes Immediate Steps to Improve Healthcare Based on Patient Feedback
Punjab Health Secretary Takes Action on Patient Feedback to Improve Healthcare Services
In a bid to enhance healthcare services across Punjab, Principal Secretary of Health and Family Welfare Kumar Rahul held a crucial meeting with Civil Surgeons and Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) of district hospitals on March 8, addressing critical concerns raised by a recent Patient Feedback Survey. The survey, which was conducted by the Punjab Development Commission in collaboration with the Health Department, evaluated key aspects of patient experiences including cleanliness, waiting times, doctor interactions, and the availability of medicines.
The meeting aimed to ensure that healthcare facilities across Punjab maintain high standards and meet the expectations of the citizens. During the review, Kumar Rahul issued strict directives to officials to resolve all concerns promptly and ensure efficiency in the delivery of medical services. A prominent action in the meeting was the zero tolerance policy for any form of negligence in healthcare services, highlighting the state government’s commitment to quality healthcare for all citizens.
Immediate Action on Patient Feedback
The Patient Feedback Survey, which ran from January to mid-February, provided valuable insights into several aspects of healthcare services that need improvement. The concerns raised in the survey pointed to issues related to patient waiting times, cleanliness of healthcare facilities, and doctor-patient interactions. The Health Secretary emphasized the importance of addressing these issues quickly, stating, “Our priority is to ensure every citizen receives timely and quality healthcare. We will take stringent action against any officer failing to uphold these standards.”
In response to the survey findings, Civil Surgeons have been instructed to display the centralized public grievance number 104 prominently in all Outpatient Departments (OPDs) of government hospitals. This initiative will provide patients with an accessible platform to voice concerns, ensuring better accountability within healthcare facilities.
Addressing Pending Ayushman Bharat Claims
In line with improving healthcare accessibility, Kumar Rahul directed the SMOs to resolve all pending claims under the Ayushman Bharat – Mukh Mantri Sehet Bima Yojana within one week. The Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides health insurance coverage to underprivileged families, has been a cornerstone of the state’s efforts to ensure healthcare for all. The timely settlement of claims is vital to ensure that eligible families do not face unnecessary delays in receiving healthcare benefits.
The Chief Secretary also highlighted the importance of the “Yudh – Nashian Virudh” campaign, urging Civil Surgeons to expedite the functioning of Opioid Substitution Therapy (OOAT) centers and de-addiction rehabilitation facilities. The government is determined to reduce drug addiction and is focused on enhancing treatment facilities for affected individuals.
Strengthening Tuberculosis and Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Programs
In addition to addressing immediate concerns, Special Secretary Health Ghanshyam Thori emphasized the need to expand the Nikshay Poshan Yojna under the 100 Days TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Punjab has committed to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) within the next year, and the expansion of nutritional support to TB patients is a vital part of this initiative. The health department is also focused on screening the population for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a target to complete screening for people aged 30 and above by March 31.
Training and Transparency in Procurement
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the training of Civil Surgeons and SMOs on the Punjab Transparency in Public Procurement Rules-2022. The training will streamline the procurement processes in health facilities, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and transparently. This move is part of the state’s broader effort to improve healthcare infrastructure while maintaining high standards of accountability.
A Comprehensive Approach to Healthcare Reform
The meeting also featured input from Anurag Kundu, a member of the Punjab Development Commission, and senior officials, including Dr. Hitinder Kaur (Director Health and Family Welfare), Dr. Jasminder (Director Health Services), and Dr. Jaspreet Kaur (Director, ESI). The discussions centered around the importance of improving healthcare access and ensuring that patient feedback is leveraged to bring about significant improvements in the healthcare system.
The Punjab Health Department’s commitment to reform and continuous improvement reflects the state’s vision of delivering accessible, efficient, and high-quality healthcare services to all citizens. By addressing patient concerns head-on and implementing stringent measures for transparency and efficiency, the department is taking critical steps to raise the standard of healthcare in the state.
Conclusion: Punjab’s Ongoing Commitment to Healthcare Excellence
The meeting convened by Principal Secretary Kumar Rahul reflects the Punjab government’s unwavering focus on improving healthcare in the state. By acting on patient feedback, resolving pending claims under government schemes, and focusing on transparency and accountability, Punjab is working towards providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for every citizen.
The integration of feedback, alongside the expansion of essential health programs and reforms in procurement processes, signals Punjab’s dedication to making significant strides in healthcare reform. The government’s proactive measures are creating a foundation for a healthcare system that is not only responsive but also adaptable to the changing needs of the population.