New Delhi (Agency): Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya recently conducted a comprehensive review of healthcare services in West Bengal, expressing the central government’s commitment to offering quality healthcare to all citizens of the state. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the focus is on implementing the Ayushman Bharat program effectively for the benefit of the people of West Bengal.
During his visit, Dr. Mandaviya assessed various healthcare initiatives, including the Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centres, National TB Elimination Program, Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), Telemedicine services, Medical Education, and Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Program.
The Minister lauded the Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centre initiative, highlighting its role in providing comprehensive primary healthcare services near people’s homes. He also provided insights into the resources allocated to West Bengal under the National Health Mission:
– Approval of 800 Sub-Centres at the cost of Rs. 288.72 crores.
– 2 Urban Community Health Centres and 37 new urban PHCs approved at the cost of Rs. 27.75 crores.
– 404 Ayushman Bharat Urban Health and Wellness Centers have been approved.
The review also covered the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program, with the commitment to eradicate Tuberculosis by 2025. Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the effective utilization of funds released under the National Health Mission.
The Minister noted approvals under the 15th Finance Commission, including 223 Block Public Health Units and 719 sub-centres in the state. West Bengal has also seen 10,358 Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres operationalized, resulting in a footfall of over 16 crore.
Under the PM-ABHIM initiative, aimed at providing quality healthcare services to West Bengal’s citizens, Dr. Mandaviya announced:
– 22 Critical Care Blocks sanctioned for Rs. 727 crores.
– 23 Integrated Public Health Labs sanctioned for Rs. 47.38 crores.
– 510 Urban Health and Wellness Centres approved for Rs. 535.50 crores.
Dr. Mandaviya also reviewed Medical Education and the Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Program, reaffirming the commitment to offer quality medical education in West Bengal.
The Union Health Minister’s visit signifies a strong focus on healthcare in West Bengal, aligning with national objectives and emphasizing the role of Ayushman Bharat in achieving comprehensive healthcare coverage. The collaborative efforts between the central and state governments reflect an inclusive approach towards the betterment of public health services, a vital step towards fulfilling the healthcare needs of the citizens of West Bengal.
