CGPW Association Kashmir meets to discuss key issues; AD CGHS Chandigarh joins

Srinagar: The Central Government Pensioners Welfare Association Kashmir (CGPWA-K) held its weekly meeting today at the AS Club Srinagar, which witnessed the participation of Dr. Satwindra Singh, Additional Director of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Chandigarh.

The meeting was presided over by Dr. Rafeeq Masoodi, Vice President of CGPWA-K, and saw an active discussion on various issues concerning retired central government employees, particularly related to healthcare services under the CGHS scheme.

Members appreciated the presence of Dr. Singh and raised several concerns, which he heard with patience and seriousness. The association emphasized that senior citizens, having served the government for three to four decades, deserve not only respect but also timely and efficient access to health benefits under CGHS.

One of the key issues brought up was the delay in payments to SKIMS, which has extended cashless treatment facilities to CGHS beneficiaries. The AD assured members that although he has recently taken over, he will look into the matter to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.

Another major concern was the cumbersome procedure for medicine supply to the CGHS Wellness Centre in Sanatnagar. Dr. Singh was informed that sourcing medicines from Jammu often leads to delays, and members suggested that local suppliers in Srinagar be engaged instead. Additionally, members urged that suppliers and the Wellness Centre avoid substituting prescribed medicines on their own, as it may adversely affect patients.

The association also passed a resolution requesting the AD to write to the Chief Secretary of J&K or Secretary Health to improve waiting facilities at the Sanatnagar Wellness Centre. Suggestions included the provision of adequate space, chairs, tables, and recreational amenities like games and television to improve the experience of senior citizens during their visits.

The issue of delayed bill reimbursements was also raised, with members requesting faster processing timelines. The meeting concluded with a suggestion to empanel a diagnostic laboratory in Srinagar for the benefit of CGHS beneficiaries. The AD responded positively, saying if the association identifies a local lab, CGHS would facilitate its early registration.

Following the meeting, Dr. Satwindra Singh, along with senior members GM Dilshad, GS, and Amin Mahtab, visited the Wellness Centre at Sanatnagar to interact with the doctors and staff, further underscoring the commitment to addressing ground-level concerns.