MLA Sajjad Shaheen inaugurates free medical camp at SDH Banihal

Ziraat Times News Desk

Banihal, August 12: Banihal–Gool MLA Sajjad Shaheen on Wednesday inaugurated a free medical camp for persons with disabilities at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal, organised by the Health Department to provide accessible healthcare, medical consultation and assistance to specially-abled persons.

Speaking on the occasion, Shaheen said the government was committed to strengthening healthcare institutions in rural and remote areas so that people would not have to travel long distances for essential medical treatment.

“People living in rural and difficult terrain areas deserve the same quality of healthcare as those living in urban centres,” he said, stressing the need to strengthen the healthcare network at the grassroots level and ensure timely medical attention for all.

Shaheen said SDH Banihal would soon have a CT Scan facility, which, he said, would significantly improve diagnostic services and enhance the hospital’s capacity to provide advanced healthcare locally.

He also said SDH Gool, PHC Sangaldan, PHC Khari, PHC Ukharhal, PHC Neel, PHC Mangit, NTPHC Ramsoo and other healthcare institutions across the Banihal–Gool constituency would be progressively strengthened with improved infrastructure, adequate manpower and better medical facilities, with particular focus on heart-care and other essential services.

Terming the medical camp an important initiative, Shaheen called for such camps to be organised regularly, particularly in remote areas, to facilitate early diagnosis, treatment, medical assessment and access to government welfare schemes.

A number of persons with disabilities availed themselves of medical examination, consultation and guidance from the medical team during the camp.

Shaheen appreciated the Block Medical Officer, Banihal, and his team for organising the camp and praised doctors, paramedical staff and other healthcare workers for their efforts. He said such initiatives not only provide immediate medical assistance but also help identify the healthcare needs of vulnerable sections and facilitate timely intervention.

Later, Shaheen toured SDH Banihal and reviewed patient-care facilities and the overall functioning of the hospital. He interacted with patients and attendants, listened to their concerns and sought feedback on the services being provided.

During the visit, he announced 10 air conditioners for all patient wards of SDH Banihal, aimed at improving patient comfort, particularly during extreme weather conditions. He also reviewed the availability of essential facilities and stressed the need to maintain high standards of patient care and provide patients and attendants with a comfortable and dignified environment.

Health Department officials, doctors, paramedical staff, local party functionaries and attendants of beneficiaries were present on the occasion.