SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, July 9: Dr Sidharth Sanyal, the newly appointed Director-in-Chief (DIC) of Health in Jharkhand, has stated that his primary focus will be on enhancing diagnostic and testing facilities at remote health centres.
Emphasising the need for early detection of diseases, he said such initiatives would ensure timely and appropriate treatment at Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), or medical college hospitals.
Dr Sanyal, who succeeded Dr C.K. Shahi, highlighted that strengthening the link between health professionals and the public is crucial for meaningful reform in the state’s healthcare system. “If a patient’s illness is identified early at the sub-health centre level, it becomes easier to provide targeted treatment at higher facilities,” he noted.
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Ayushman Bharat Scheme and Outreach
In addition to diagnostics, Dr Sanyal stressed the importance of expanding the reach of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
“This scheme has been launched for the benefit of the poor, and if it does not reach them, then its purpose is defeated. Ensuring maximum benefit to the eligible population is high on my agenda,” he said.
Addressing Medicine Shortage
Acknowledging a widespread issue, Dr Sanyal admitted that patients in government hospitals and health centres often face significant challenges in accessing medicines. He attributed the crisis to a lack of coordination between the procurement and requirement departments.
“I am fully aware of this problem. Measures will be taken to ensure that medicines are available at all centres across the state,” he assured.
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Ensuring Safety of Medical Personnel
Dr Sanyal also emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of doctors and healthcare staff. He said that improving health services requires mutual trust and cooperation between the public and medical professionals.
“Security at hospitals and health centres is essential. I appeal to people to support doctors in delivering treatment,” he said.
According to official sources, Dr Sanyal’s name had been recommended for the post of Director-in-Chief by then Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Arun Kumar Singh last year. However, the appointment was reportedly delayed after Singh’s retirement, and the file remained unattended until now.
