Health Minister reviews SKIMS performance

Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat on Monday to review the performance and functioning of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura.

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In her address, Itoo underscored the vital role of SKIMS in providing specialised medical care not only to the people of the Valley but also to patients from neighbouring regions. “SKIMS is the cornerstone of our healthcare system, and its performance directly impacts the well-being of thousands of people on a regular basis,” the Minister stated.

Itoo highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards in patient care, medical education, and research at the prestigious institution. “We must work collectively to ensure that the institute continues to operate at its full potential in delivering advanced and quality healthcare to our people,” she emphasised.

The Minister reviewed the current state of infrastructure at SKIMS, focusing on inpatient and outpatient facilities, diagnostic centres and emergency services. She urged the administration to expedite the ongoing projects aimed at modernising the facilities and enhancing patient comfort. Additionally, Itoo called for the decongestion of the emergency ward to improve the effectiveness of patient care.

Addressing concerns over manpower and staffing shortages, Itoo instructed the Director of SKIMS to recruit necessary paramedics and other medical professionals on a contract basis until regular appointments are made. She also stressed the importance of maintaining transparency throughout the recruitment process.

While reviewing the financial and resource allocation of the institute, Itoo emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in executing various works. She instructed the SKIMS administration to regularly update expenditure details on the BEAMS portal in coordination with the Finance Department.

At the meeting, SKIMS Director announced two major upcoming achievements for the institute: the commencement of liver transplants and neonatal/ pediatric cardiac surgeries.