Punjab to Train Doctors in Advanced Critical Care, Launches Major Healthcare Capacity-Building Push
In a major step to strengthen emergency healthcare services across Punjab, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Wednesday announced an ambitious initiative to train at least two Medical Officers (MOs) from each district in advanced critical care. The training, to be conducted at premier institutions, aims to enhance doctors’ ability to manage intensive care unit (ICU) and trauma cases effectively.
Speaking at the conclusion of a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) programme on National Health Programmes and MLR/PMR for Medical Officers, Dr. Balbir Singh emphasised the significance of timely intervention during the “golden hour” — the crucial period following a medical emergency when prompt treatment can be lifesaving.
“Every Second Counts in Saving Lives”
“Every second counts in saving lives. Punjab is committed to setting new benchmarks in golden-hour care to ensure that no patient is left behind,” Dr. Singh said. He cited the success of the STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) project, which significantly reduced cardiac mortality rates in the state through timely medical intervention.
The event brought together dedicated Medical Officers from all 23 districts, underlining the state’s commitment to equitable and quality healthcare access.
Humanising Mental Health Care
Highlighting the importance of compassion in medical services, Dr. Singh stressed the need for a humane approach in treating psychiatric patients, particularly those struggling with addiction. He added that the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government is integrating skill development programmes with healthcare to promote recovery and reintegration into society.
“Mental health is a priority. We are committed to offering not just medical treatment but also rehabilitation and empowerment opportunities,” he said.
1,000 New Doctors to Be Recruited
Dr. Singh announced that the state government is set to recruit 1,000 new Medical Officers who will undergo specialised induction training. These doctors will be deployed in rural, border, and remote areas to help bridge the urban-rural healthcare gap.
To further boost capacity, Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) are being sent to the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad for advanced healthcare leadership training. Additionally, psychiatrists from the state have received specialised training at AIIMS, Delhi to help integrate mental health care into primary healthcare services.
State Awards and Surveillance Systems on the Cards
In recognition of medical excellence, the Health Minister also announced the introduction of state awards to honour outstanding contributions in public health. Punjab is also strengthening its disease surveillance systems by establishing State Working Groups and District Coordination Committees to respond swiftly to emerging health threats.
Reaffirming the government’s vision of Universal Health Coverage, Dr. Singh said the focus remains on retaining specialists in public healthcare and ensuring uninterrupted access to free essential medicines.
Healthcare Workers: Architects of Punjab’s Future
Calling the medical community “the chosen architects of Punjab’s healthcare future,” Dr. Balbir Singh concluded by reiterating the government’s unwavering commitment to innovation, equity, and excellence in healthcare services.
Present at the occasion were Special Secretary Health-cum-MD NHM Ghanshyam Thori, Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Director Family Welfare Dr. Jasminder, Deputy Directors Dr. Navjot Kaur and Dr. Surinderpal Kaur, Principal SIHFW Dr. Pommy Chatrath, and Dr. Amandeep Kaur Warring.