Patna: In a major directive aimed at strengthening emergency healthcare, Bihar health secretary Kumar Ravi has ordered all district hospitals with non-functional intensive care units (ICUs) to operationalise a minimum four-bed ICU or high dependency unit (HDU) for treating critical cases and emergencies such as cardiac arrest, snake bites, and dog bites.
Review of Health Programmes
The instructions were issued during a comprehensive review of various health programmes, hospital services, and schemes under the National Health Mission in Bihar. Special emphasis was placed on strengthening ICU and HDU facilities for emergency services, with clear directives to phase out referral services within a stipulated timeframe. The meeting also assessed the timely availability of health services and the progress of key programmes.
Government's Objective
Addressing the meeting, Ravi stated that the state government’s objective is to provide quality, accessible, and time-bound healthcare to every citizen. He underscored the need for immediate action to ensure that critical patients receive prompt treatment without unnecessary delays.
Deadline for Trauma Centres
Districts were also directed to operationalise ICU facilities in 11 upgraded trauma centres by July 15 to ensure rapid treatment for road accident victims. The development of technology to tag national highway (NH) ambulances was also discussed, enabling accident victims to be tracked and taken to designated hospitals for immediate care.
Ending Referrals
Instructions were issued to completely stop referrals from district hospitals by July 15 and from all community health centres by August 15. This move aims to decentralise emergency care and reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals.
Alternative Arrangements
Ravi also directed that where X-ray machines are non-functional, services must be ensured by linking the facility with an alternative centre. Proper signage must be installed at prominent locations in sadar hospitals to inform patients about available services.
Meeting Attendees
The meeting was attended by Amit Kumar Pandey, executive director of the State Health Society, along with senior officials of the health department and civil surgeons.
