Patna: Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey announced the establishment of Newborn Care Units (NCUs) in 13 locations across the state by February, marking Bihar as the first state in the country to operate NCUs at the district level.
Key Announcements:
- Newborn Care Units (NCUs):
- NCUs will provide specialized care for newborns, enhancing child healthcare in the state.
- Beneficiaries under various schemes will receive kits for newborn care.
- Focus on Institutional Deliveries:
- Minister Pandey directed officials to increase institutional deliveries and ensure the availability of essential machines in block-level hospitals.
- Upcoming Health Initiatives:
- Mobile Eye Screening Vehicles: To be introduced soon for eye care.
- Portable TB Testing Kits: Mobile bike-mounted testing kits will be launched in March to make Bihar tuberculosis-free.
- Modern Healthcare Facilities:
- The Minister inaugurated a cardiovascular cath lab system and an emergency department at Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences.
- He stated that advanced treatment facilities will now be available within Bihar, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment outside the state.
- Infrastructure Expansion:
- The state plans to increase the number of hospital beds to 3,247 with assistance from the central government.
Progress on Other Projects:
- Chhapra Medical College: Recently inaugurated by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during his Pragati Yatra.
- Constructed at a cost of ₹425 crore to provide advanced healthcare to the Saran division.
- The college’s land was contributed by Jai Prakash University, Chapra.
Significance:
The establishment of NCUs at the district level and the introduction of mobile health services reflect Bihar’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare infrastructure and accessibility. The initiatives aim to improve maternal and child health, combat diseases like tuberculosis, and provide modern medical facilities to the people within the state.
