CM outlines plans for state-of-the-art children’s hospitals in Vijayawada, Guntur & Vizag
PNS | Vijayawada
In a move to enhance the quality of medical care, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has instructed officials to prioritise the well-being of citizens through ‘Jagananna Aarogya Suraksha’ camps. During a review meeting at the Camp Office, the Chief Minister also outlined plans for establishing a kidney research centre in Prakasam district and modern children’s hospitals in Vijayawada, Guntur, and Visakhapatnam, similar to the highly acclaimed facility in Tirupati.
The Aarogya Suraksha programme, as described by the Chief Minister, is a prestigious initiative designed to elevate the reputation of the government and the Health Department. Reddy issued directives to ensure the smooth conduct of Suraksha camps, stressing the importance of special orders to District Collectors and increased funding allocation. As per the latest statistics provided by officials, a staggering 3,17,65,600 individuals have received medical treatment at 5,216 ‘Aarogya Suraksha’ camps, following surveys of 1,22,69,512 families across the State. Of particular concern was the revelation that 2,841 girls had been diagnosed with anaemic conditions. The government is now providing essential medical treatment and nutritious food to address this health issue.
Reddy called for a minimum of two specialist doctors in each team of four operating the camps. He also underscored the need for public awareness about the free Aarogyasri services, declaring that every resident should be well-informed about this valuable healthcare resource.
In addition to maintaining high-quality facilities at the camps, the Chief Minister urged officials to provide comprehensive support to patients requiring specialised hospital treatment. This support should extend to follow-up care, periodic check-ups, and the supply of free medications, even for patients not previously covered by Aarogyasri services.
The government is prepared to release the necessary funds for these initiatives, Reddy confirmed. The collection of data on patients, particularly in village and ward secretariats, will play a pivotal role, while regular health camps, village clinics, and family doctors will aid in creating public awareness.
Reddy demanded weekly reviews to ensure the effective conduct of Aarogya Suraksha camps. Officials also reported the identification of 251 individuals with congenital defects, all of whom are receiving specialized treatment. Furthermore, certificates for differently abled individuals will be distributed at the Suraksha camps, and plans are underway to provide pensions and medications for seriously ill patients.
The meeting also included discussions on the progress of healthcare infrastructure under the ‘Nadu-Nedu’ programme, the construction of new medical colleges, and the establishment of urban health clinics.
In attendance were Medical & Health Minister V Rajani, Chief Secretary Dr KS. Jawahar Reddy, Medical & Health Special Chief Secretary (FAC) Ajay Jain, Secretary Manjula (Covid-19) D Hosmani, Health and Family Welfare Director J. Nivas, APMSIDC VC and MD D. Muralidhar, Chairman Dr B Chandrasekhara Reddy, Aarogyasri CEO Harinder Prasad, Secondary Health Director Dr S Venkateswar, Medical Education Director Dr DSVL Narasimham, Public Health Director Dr Rami Reddy, AP Medical Council Chairman Dr Sambasiva Reddy, and other senior officials.
Principal Secretary (Medical and Health) MT Krishna Babu participated in the review via video conference, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to improve healthcare in Andhra Pradesh.
