Move Aims to Reduce Waiting Time and Improve Patient Experience in Public Hospitals
Tamil Nadu Health Minister K G Arunraj has announced that the state government is planning to introduce an Aadhaar-linked, app-based doctor appointment system across government hospitals to reduce long waiting hours and streamline patient services.
The initiative will initially be launched on a pilot basis and later expanded across the state after evaluating its effectiveness and gathering public feedback.
Digital Appointment Booking Through Aadhaar
Speaking to the media, Minister Arunraj highlighted the challenges faced by patients in major government hospitals, particularly at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, where nearly 3,000 outpatients visit daily. He noted that patients often spend two to three hours waiting even for registration.
To address this issue, the Health Department is developing a dedicated mobile application through a private agency. Under the proposed system, patients will be able to book appointments using their Aadhaar details between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., enabling faster access to healthcare services and reducing overcrowding at registration counters.
Patient Experience Committee Under Consideration
As part of broader healthcare reforms, the Tamil Nadu government is also considering the formation of a ‘Patient Experience Committee’. The committee will review hospital infrastructure, address patient grievances, and recommend improvements to enhance service delivery.
According to the minister, the committee is expected to meet every week to monitor issues and ensure timely implementation of corrective measures.
New Specialist and Nursing Posts Planned
The Health Minister further stated that the government plans to create additional specialist doctor and nursing positions to strengthen healthcare delivery in public hospitals.
The state is also taking measures to prevent disruptions caused by power outages. A coordination committee comprising officials from the Health Department, Public Works Department (PWD), and Electricity Board will be established to address infrastructure-related concerns, including uninterrupted power supply to hospitals.
Part of Larger Healthcare Modernisation Drive
The proposed digital appointment system is part of Tamil Nadu’s ongoing efforts to modernise public healthcare services and improve patient convenience.
Earlier, Tamil Nadu Health and Family Welfare Minister Ma Subramanian had announced the establishment of 25 new government hospitals across the state with an investment of Rs 1,019 crore. The hospitals are proposed in locations such as Tiruttani, Tambaram, Palani, Tirupattur, Kangeyam, Jayankondam, Thirukovilur, and Paramakudi, aiming to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and expand access to quality medical services.
The latest initiative is expected to significantly improve hospital efficiency, reduce patient waiting times, and enhance the overall healthcare experience in government medical institutions across Tamil Nadu.
