What happened at Jalandhar civil hospital must not be repeated elsewhere: Health minister to civil surgeons

State Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Tuesday issued directions to civil surgeons across all districts of the state to ensure that what happened at the Civil Hospital Jalandhar shouldn't be repeated at any other hospital.

The minister said this while presiding over a high-level health review meeting of all civil surgeons in Chandigarh.

During the meet, the Health Minister issued strict directives to ensure uninterrupted oxygen supply and power backup in all critical care units, including ICUs, Operation Theatres (OTs), and emergency wards across all government health facilities in the state.

He also emphasised the need for 24x7 oxygen availability, functional UPS systems, and fully operational generator sets to prevent any disruption in life-saving medical services.

Civil surgeons from across the state and two Medical Superintendents (Jalandhar and Patiala) along with SMOs from various state units were present.

The minister also asked the hospital in-charges to address all lacunae at their hospitals.

In another move to enhance critical care capabilities, Dr Balbir Singh announced that every doctor and paramedic, including staff nurses, will undergo training in critical care and advanced life support.