Ensure resource availability not disrupted, officials told

A high-level review meeting of all Block Medical Officers (BMOs) and Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) of Kangra district was held on Friday via video conferencing, chaired by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO). The primary agenda was to strategise the effective implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure prompt, coordinated responses by health institutions during emergencies.

Speaking to The Tribune, the CMO stated, “All health institutions have been directed to assess their current capacities in anticipation of possible emergencies. They must ensure arrangements for additional beds, human resources and temporary medical units as required, to respond swiftly during any crisis.”

CMO Dr Guleri stressed the importance of a thorough evaluation of essential medicines, medical equipment, life-saving supplies and supply chain status. Officers were instructed to implement real-time inventory management systems to ensure resource availability during emergencies is not disrupted.

Additionally, all institutions have been asked to conduct regular mock drills and contingency rehearsals to prepare for the safe evacuation of patients and staff in the event of disasters. These drills aim to improve the readiness of the medical workforce and ensure timely, effective action during real emergencies.

Concluding the meeting, the CMO reiterated that the Health Department’s top priority remains the provision of uninterrupted and effective health services to the public.