-Govt. Medical College Patiala to be Upgraded to PGI Standards with Latest Training for Medical Faculty
-Medical Education Minister Makes Surprise Visit to Govt. Medical College and Rajindra Hospital
Patiala, October 9:
Punjab’s Minister for Medical Education, Research, Health, and Family Welfare, Dr. Balbir Singh, today launched a major initiative aimed at revolutionizing medical education in government medical colleges. During a surprise visit to the Government Medical College and Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, the Minister assessed the ground realities in various departments and directed all departmental heads to prepare a comprehensive vision document. This document will guide the transformation of medical education, aligning it with the highest standards, similar to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI).
Dr. Balbir Singh emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government is committed to delivering quality healthcare services to its citizens. Highlighting the success of Aam Aadmi Clinics in identifying and addressing the root causes of diseases, he noted that the next step is to bring the state’s medical institutions up to PGI standards, with enhanced facilities and faculty training.
The Minister visited several key departments including Forensic Medicine, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Paediatrics, Gynaecology, Neurology, Urology, and the super-specialty wing. He instructed that no patient should be referred to external laboratories for tests, nor should they be prescribed medications from outside chemists.
Dr. Balbir Singh also called for the introduction of new courses similar to those offered at PGI, and urged faculty and researchers to focus on areas of pressing public health concern, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOD) in women and girls, air quality in labour rooms, substance abuse, and the mental health of youth. He further encouraged research into diseases caused by pollution, cancer, heart disease, and maternal health, including the impact of chemicals on newborns through cord blood and breast milk.
In addition, the Minister announced plans for a new blood transfusion course, as Punjab ranks third in the country for voluntary blood donation. He also revealed that the pathology lab at Government Medical College will be developed into a reference lab, and there is a proposal to establish an advanced paediatrics centre.
Dr. Balbir Singh instructed the Director Principal, Dr. Rajan Singla, and Medical Superintendent, Dr. Girish Sahni, to prioritize filling vacant positions for teachers, doctors, and paramedical staff. He reiterated that providing world-class healthcare remains a top priority for the Punjab government and that faculty members will receive the latest training and necessary facilities, along with timely promotions.
