KGMU Lucknow Trauma Centre to Provide Free Diagnostic Tests in First 24 Hours
In a significant healthcare development, the Trauma Centre at King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow will begin offering various essential diagnostic tests free of cost to patients arriving for emergency care. This initiative, set to commence from next week, will cover all critical investigations required during the initial 24 hours of admission.
Comprehensive Free Testing Services
The free services will include a range of vital tests necessary for trauma cases, such as:
- Complete blood tests and laboratory investigations
- CT scans for detailed imaging
- FAST ultrasound examinations for trauma assessment
These services will be funded through KGMU's contingency funds, ensuring no financial burden falls on patients during critical emergency situations.
Digital Transformation Enables Free Services
Vice Chancellor Prof Soniya Nityanand announced on Saturday that this decision follows KGMU's successful migration to the government's next-generation e-Hospital system. The implementation of the Hospital Information System (HIS) allows the university to digitally track all investigations and generate zero bills automatically.
Prof Nityanand explained: "The digital system makes the entire process accountable and audit-friendly. Earlier, investigations were not free because manual systems led to errors, misuse, and audit objections."
How the New System Works
Under the new arrangement:
- Each patient receives a unique registration number upon admission
- All tests prescribed within the first 24 hours are automatically billed at zero cost
- The digital system ensures accurate tracking and eliminates billing errors
The university estimates that approximately 300 to 400 patients will benefit from this initiative daily, with particular advantages for trauma victims and economically weaker patients whose attendants often arrive at the hospital without sufficient funds.
Expansion Plans and Implementation
KGMU is considering extending these free diagnostic services to the cardiology wing in the future, potentially broadening the impact of this healthcare initiative.
Currently, dry runs are already underway at the Trauma Centre, with staff receiving comprehensive training on the new digital system. To support this digitization process, eight new staff members will be added to ensure smooth implementation and operation.
This move represents a significant step toward making emergency healthcare more accessible and affordable, particularly for vulnerable populations facing traumatic medical situations.
