-Dr. Balbir Singh Reviews Strategy for New Stroke Care Initiative in Patiala
Patiala, July 24:
In a significant step toward strengthening emergency medical care, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh announced that Government Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, will be developed as a dedicated hub for the immediate treatment of brain stroke (paralysis) cases. Surrounding districts will function as spokes under this hub-and-spoke model to ensure timely and effective intervention.
Dr. Balbir Singh shared this while reviewing the proposed strategy with a team of expert doctors at the Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Super Specialty Block. Also present were Dr. R.P.S. Sibia, Principal of Government Medical College, and Dr. Vishal Chopra, Medical Superintendent of Rajindra Hospital.
The Minister noted that Patiala is already successfully operating as a heart attack treatment hub, where patients from nearby districts receive preliminary care—including ECG and lifesaving medication—at spoke centers before being referred to the main hospital. This model has so far saved the lives of 583 heart patients, with over 700 healthcare workers trained to manage such cases effectively.
Building on this success, Dr. Balbir Singh announced that the same system will now be adopted for brain stroke management. The advanced treatment protocols available in private hospitals like Fortis or Max will now be accessible at Rajindra Hospital—completely free of cost for the public.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to universal healthcare, Dr. Balbir Singh said Punjab is rolling out a Universal Health Insurance Scheme while simultaneously strengthening the primary, secondary, and tertiary care systems.
He also revealed that strategic plans are in place for bone marrow transplants and cochlear implants for children born with hearing and speech impairments, enabling them to lead a more inclusive life. The expert team also held deliberations on broader healthcare reforms to be implemented across the state.
