Ahead of Diwali, Health Dept staff on the toes

To further improve the quality of health services in the district, Civil Surgeon Dr Rajesh Garg held a meeting with all program officers and Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) at the Civil Surgeon's office on Thursday.

Presiding over the meeting, Dr Garg emphasised the need for compassion and empathy in dealing with patients and their families. He also reviewed the progress of various health schemes and programmes being implemented in the district, including the services being provided through Aam Aadmi Clinics. He stressed that public health should remain the top priority.

In view of the Diwali festival, the Civil Surgeon instructed all SMOs to keep emergency health services on alert to tackle any untoward incidents. He highlighted the increased risk of eye injuries during Diwali and directed that emergency facilities be ensured in all health institutions across the district.

Dr Garg called for an on-rotation duty roster of eye surgeons to be prepared and directed that sufficient stock of medicines for treating minor eye injuries be maintained. He also instructed that eye injury reports be properly filled out and sent to the head office on Diwali.

Additionally, he emphasised timely updating of the daily reports related to the 60-day Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign launched by the government on October 9, 2025.

The Civil Surgeon further directed that arrangements for uninterrupted electricity, oxygen supply and essential medicines be kept fully functional in all health facilities. He reiterated the need for effective implementation of national health programs without any negligence.

Dr Garg also underlined the importance of a compassionate approach by the health staff, especially towards the elderly, pregnant women and patients with serious illnesses. He urged staff to prioritise these groups and ensure that patients receive all required medicines. Supervision should be maintained regularly, and daily monitoring must be done to ensure effective service delivery, he added.