Punjab Hospitals Get Advanced MRI, CT Scans

Punjab's health department is set to enhance diagnostic capabilities by introducing MRI, CT scan, and other radio-diagnostic services across all 23 district hospitals and select sub-divisional hospitals. This strategic move, implemented through public-private partnerships, is designed to address a significant deficit in advanced imaging facilities within government healthcare institutions.

The initiative will allow patients to access crucial diagnostic services affordably and conveniently, reducing the need for extensive travel and costly private laboratory fees. Health officials anticipate that these in-house services will lead to earlier detection and treatment of illnesses, consequently lowering referrals to specialized medical centers.

To overcome the shortage of qualified radiologists, exacerbated by a pay disparity between public and private sectors, the government is partnering with private entities. These agencies will be responsible for installing and operating the advanced equipment. The Punjab health minister confirmed that MRI machines are currently being installed, prioritizing hospitals near major highways to benefit accident victims during the critical 'Golden Hour'.

This reliance on private partnerships is a continuation of the health department's strategy to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery. The government has already engaged private specialists across various disciplines for district and sub-divisional hospitals, community health centers, and specialized clinics, aiming to compensate for a nearly 50% vacancy rate in specialist posts and a lack of regular recruitment since 2022.