PGI starts teleconsultation with GMSH-16 in paediatric services

Chandigarh, January 18

The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) has conducted online tele-consultations for over 100 newborn babies, eliminating the need for referrals from the Government Multi-Speciality Hospital (GMSH), Sector 16.

This initiative, aimed at providing specialised paediatric care, has proven to be a game-changer.

Traditionally, critical patients, particularly newborn babies requiring intensive care, were referred from the GMSH-16 to the PGI due to the latter’s super-specialty facilities. However, with the implementation of telemedicine services, the necessity for such referrals has significantly diminished. Dr Suman Singh, Director, Health Services, said the Paediatric Centre at the PGI, which is already burdened with a high patient volume, was experiencing relief after the initiative.

The tele-consultation service, initiated in 2007, has garnered a positive response. Over 70 consultations are conducted daily, with the goal of expanding the service to operate 24 hours a day. The department envisions making the GMSH-16 a telemedicine hub, with plans to appoint nine specialist doctors to further enhance the range and quality of online consultations.

This transformation in healthcare delivery aligns with the Central Government’s e-Sanjeevani OPD scheme, providing patients with the convenience of seeking medical advice from the comfort of their home.

Dr Singh said even for minor illnesses, patients could receive timely medical advice without the need for a physical hospital visit. In cases requiring further examination, patients are called in for a detailed check-up.