Evening OPDs Launch to Ease Patient Load

The Government Multi-Specialty Hospital (GMSH-16) in Sector 16 is preparing to launch evening Outpatient Department (OPD) services within the next week. This new initiative will operate on a trial basis for two hours daily, from 5 pm to 7 pm, with the aim of assessing public response and improving patient access.

New specialists have been approved, addressing a critical staffing shortage that previously hindered the plan. The hospital was chosen to pilot the program due to its comprehensive diagnostic facilities, including CT scans and X-rays, ensuring patients can receive necessary tests on-site.

This initiative seeks to alleviate the daily burden on the hospital, which sees up to 3,500 OPD patients and around 400 emergency cases daily. The extended hours are specifically designed to cater to working professionals and others who face difficulties seeking medical attention during standard daytime hours. Evening OPD services were previously attempted in 2015 but faced sustainability issues.

The Chandigarh Administration had proposed a Rs 6 crore budget for this phased plan, with GMSH-16 being the first government hospital in the union territory to revive such services. A social welfare committee had recommended evening OPDs to better serve the community.