SRINAGAR: The Health and Medical Education Department on Friday informed the Legislative Assembly that measures are underway to strengthen infrastructure and patient care at Shri Maharaja Gulab Singh (SMGS) Hospital, Jammu, including an MRI facility, additional manpower, and a multi-level parking system.
Replying to a question by MLA Yudhvir Sethi, Health Minister Sakina Itoo said SMGS Hospital is a key tertiary care centre providing specialised services in gynaecology, obstetrics, paediatrics, ENT and dermatology, and also treats critical patients referred from across Jammu province.
She said patients needing MRI scans are currently referred to Government Medical College Hospital Jammu. To address this gap, the proposal for an MRI facility has been taken up with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) under its CSR initiative. IOCL has agreed in principle to provide an MRI scanner, subject to formalities, and the DPR is under preparation.
On staffing, the Minister said 682 posts are filled against a sanctioned strength of 1,070, with arrangements being made through academic engagement and rationalisation of staff.
She added that a multi-level parking proposal has been submitted to Jammu Municipal Corporation and Smart City authorities for approval to ease congestion and improve accessibility.
The Minister also highlighted the 243-bedded Maternal and Child Care block at SMGS Hospital, which is aimed at improving maternal and neonatal healthcare outcomes.
