By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 16: Health Minister, Ampareen Lyngdoh has assured that efforts will be made to address the deficiencies in the Shillong Civil Hospital for its efficient functioning.
After holding a review meeting with the officers of the hospital on Monday to assess the requirement of infrastructure, she said the department will take up the matter with competent authorities to find the best solutions.
It was felt that the hospital immediately requires some interventions vis-à-vis infrastructure. The engineering wing has been instructed to prepare a project for the purpose.
Lyngdoh said the contractual staff, particularly those discontinued under the emergency staff category, need to be re-engaged urgently due to vital facilities in the dialysis unit, operation theater and blood bank to ensure the hospital’s efficient operation.
The Medical Superintendent and the Surgeon Superintendent of the hospital told the Minister that hostel facilities for nurses were urgently needed. They also highlighted the need to expand the trauma centres and the ICU.
Earlier in the day, Lyngdoh visited the Wellness Centre at Nongmensong which urgently requires the upgradation of facilities. It had insufficient staff – a doctor with dual responsibilities from Rynjah attended to the locals’ needs.
Lyngdoh was accompanied by local MDC Fantin J Lakadong, Director of Health Services Dr R Ally, DM&HO Dr Shakina Lyngdoh as well as members of the Executive of the Dorbar Shnong.
During a discussion, it was felt that much like in localities and areas around Shillong, there is a pressing need to address the growing drug problem in and around Nongmensong.
Many minors missed their vaccine doses during the COVID-19 pandemic. So, it was decided that the vaccination drive, currently at approximately 57% in the entire area, will be intensified and that the wellness centre will also address the increasing cases of non-communicable diseases.
There was a consensus that tuberculosis should be addressed on a larger scale, with a focus on raising awareness among the citizens so that they understand that it is now a treatable disease.
