UT to invite private firms to set up diagnostic services at govt facilities

The idea of a PPP model is to reduce the waiting time for patients who require ultrasound, CT scan and MRI. “At GMSH-16, we have CT scans and MRI scan facilities under the PPP mode, and despite three ultrasound machines here, and one each at our civil hospitals, patients have to wait for many weeks to get these tests. Patients in the emergency get priority and with the PPP mode working very well here, we want to extend this model and decentralise by offering diagnostic and lab services like ultrasound, PET scans, CT scans, radiology services in our other health facilities and Civil Hospitals of Sector 22, 45 and Mani Majra,” said Dr Suman Singh, Director Health Services.

Apart from reducing the waiting time for tests, which can be as long as two months for an ultrasound at the PGI and GMCH-32, one at GMSH-16 and for an MRI around two months at PGI for OPD patients and the same at GMCH-32, the effort is to increase efficiency and quality of services. “While we provide the space, the firms will have their own staff, machines and equipment, thus offering 24 hours services, providing relief to patients,” said Dr Singh.

While all diagnostic facilities in government facilities are free of cost, according to Dr Singh, once the PPP model is implemented, they will devise a system to reimburse or provide stamps to poor patients for the diagnostic tests, especially for pregnant women. “We are working on a final plan for this aspect.”

With most government hospitals witnessing many patients in OPDs, according to Dr Singh, these centres will help decentralise the rush and encourage people to go to the Civil Hospitals and other facilities near their home. “This will save the time of patients, and we will be able to provide better and more effective health services at an affordable price and 24 hours a day,” said Dr Singh.