The Department of Health and Family Welfare has taken on a project that it hopes will bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare options.
The government has decided to launch 10-bed intensive care units (ICUs) in certain areas connected via ‘Tele-ICU Hubs’ to specialist doctors.
The launch event was held here today. The project aims to address the increasing demand for advanced critical care facilities and to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare services, ensuring timely and high-quality medical interventions for patients with severe health conditions.
While addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma informed that several ICUs are being launched at certain locations (though these were not listed in a press release that was shared with the media), emphasising the aim to ensure optimal utility and reach even the most inaccessible regions.
“Our project aligns with the vision set five and a half years ago, prioritising social sectors with healthcare at the forefront,” the CM said.
He also noted that Meghalaya’s maternal mortality rate (MMR) has come down from around 200 per 1 lakh live births to 120 (which is still high), “reflecting the transformative impact of technology on our healthcare sector. I envision a great future in showcasing how technology can revolutionise healthcare for the entire country.”
The project is meant to establish an interconnected network between the 10-bed ICU ward and the ‘Tele-ICU Hub’, “enabling seamless communication and real-time data sharing for better patient outcomes”. The Tele-ICU Hub will enable remote monitoring and consultation by intensivists and critical care specialists.
Health and Family Welfare Principal Secretary Sampath Kumar said that the state government is working towards extending the “healthy lifespan” of Meghalayans by 10-15 years.
