Install MRI, dialysis machines in all taluk and district hospital, CM tells health officials

BENGALURU: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday vented his anger at Health Department officials over non-installation of MRI and dialysis machines at taluk and district hospitals.

“Even though funds were available, why wasn’t it used? Shouldn’t poor people visit hospitals? There should be no such lapses by the next and action will be taken”, the CM warned.

The CM sought information about the unspent funds under the National Health Mission. He was also informed that there is a 52 per cent shortage of specialist doctors, 31 per cent shortage of MBBS doctors and 18 per cent shortage of nursing and paramedical staff. The CM instructed the officials to take steps to fill the vacancies.

The CM, who also reviewed the Ayushman Bharat-Arogya Karnataka scheme, also directed the officials to study the health insurance schemes in Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan and submit a report. The time for reimbursement for private hospitals has reduced to 14 days and empanelment of hospitals should improve, he said.

The CM directed the Health Department officials to submit a proposal to the Finance Department for two-year tenders to ensure uninterrupted supply of medicines. He also instructed the officials to review implementation of the National Health Mission regularly and to achieve the targets. Another review meeting will be held in three months and warned officials against any laxity.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, Chief Secretary Vandita Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dr Rajneesh Goel, Principal Secretary T K Anil Kumar, Finance Department Secretary P C Jaffer and others participated in the meeting.