In a significant move aimed at easing the financial burden on families, the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi has drastically reduced the overnight stay charges at its patient shelter home. Starting Thursday, relatives of those admitted to the government-run hospital can now avail a bed for just Rs 25 per person, a sharp drop from the earlier rate of Rs 100.
A Relief Initiative for Families from Distant Areas
Dr. Raj Kumar, the director of RIMS, stated that the decision to slash the rates was taken specifically to provide relief to the families of economically disadvantaged patients and those who travel from far-off regions to seek treatment at the hospital. This step is expected to make a substantial difference for countless attendants who often struggle with accommodation costs during critical medical emergencies.
The 310-bed capacity Vishram Griha (shelter home) had been operating only its first floor until now, which limited accommodation to just 62 beds. The full building, however, has a much larger capacity spread across 50 rooms designed in a dormitory style.
Facility Amenities and Operational Details
The shelter home's layout includes 10 rooms with eight beds each, 35 rooms with six beds each, and five rooms with four beds each. For the safety of personal belongings, each bed comes with an individual locker. The facility is well-equipped with several amenities:
- Common washrooms on every floor.
- Disability-friendly toilets.
- Seating arrangements across all floors.
- Water purifiers for clean drinking water.
- A rooftop solar water heater system with a 5,000-litre capacity.
From Thursday onwards, a designated operating agency will take over the management of the Vishram Griha. Only relatives of patients currently admitted in RIMS will be eligible to use this accommodation. To apply, they must submit the hospital admission documents along with a prescribed application form to the operating agency. Beds will be allotted only after proper verification of these documents.
Revised Tariff Structure and Future Additions
The revised tariff structure is designed to be progressive. While the stay will cost Rs 25 per person for the first week, the rate will increase to Rs 50 per person from the eighth day onwards. This model aims to support short-term stays while managing long-term occupancy.
The operating agency has also planned to introduce additional conveniences within the shelter home premises in the near future. These include a canteen, a cafeteria, and a pharmacy, which will further ease the stay for patient attendants, providing them with essential services under one roof.
This initiative by RIMS Ranchi marks a commendable effort in making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the common people, addressing a critical non-medical need that significantly impacts patient care and family well-being during hospital stays.
