An exclusive section tagged ‘Ward 500' would be created for treatments covered by the Chief Minster's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme at all government hospitals empanelled under the scheme. A total of 117 beds at three government facilities in the district have been assigned for the purpose, following an inspection by Health Minister V.S. Vijay here on Monday.
Ward 500 is expected to become a signature tag like ‘108' that is identified with ambulance services in the state, say health authorities. The Minster has instructed that wards be developed on par with corporate hospitals with air-conditioned interiors, bedside lockers, improved toilet facilities, enhanced comfort and privacy, M.A.Aleem, Vice-Principal, K.A.P.Viswanatham Government Medical College told The Hindu .
Dr. Vijay who held a review meeting with heads of all departments at the Annal Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital identified existing wards that would be modified to form Ward 500.
The male orthopaedic ward and the adjacent medical ward in the ground floor along with the post-operative ward directly overhead in the first floor would be consolidated for the new ward holding 72 beds, according to Dean, A.Karthikeyan, AGM Hospital.
Fifteen beds have been identified in the old building of Manapparai District Headquarters Hospital, T.Mohanasundaram, Joint Director, Health Services, told The Hindu. On completion of the new building inaugurated by the Chief Minster on Monday, around 70 beds would be allocated for the purpose, he added.
Similarly, 30 beds, 15 each for male and female patients have been assigned for the purpose on the first floor of the Government Hospital, Srirangam, that has been additionally empanelled under the scheme.
The Minster had insisted specific medical procedures allotted to government hospitals should not be performed in private hospitals and in the event of referrals arising higher government treating facilities in other cities should be opted. The proceeds from surgeries would be used for development of government hospitals and as honorarium for treating doctors.
The funds for the new wards are expected to be issued by the insurance company. Medical Superintendent Kanagasundaram and United India Insurance officials accompanied the Minster on inspection.
