The Rajasthan government has directed all major hospitals attached to medical colleges to strengthen systems related to diagnostics, medicines, treatment and infrastructure, while also exploring the launch of evening OPDs to manage rising patient load and reduce long waiting times.
During a high-level review meeting held via video conference, Medical Education Department Principal Secretary Gayatri Rathore instructed hospital administrations to improve crowd management and patient convenience across large government hospitals.
The state government said Jan Aushadhi Kendras and Amrit Pharmacies will be opened on priority in hospitals, while the medicine supply and storage system will also be strengthened. Authorities were directed to increase the number of medicine distribution counters wherever required.
Officials were also instructed to ensure adequate faculty and resources in newly established medical colleges.
Reviewing summer preparedness, the Principal Secretary directed all hospitals to conduct mandatory fire safety audits and mock drills, citing increased fire risks during the heatwave season. Hospitals were also instructed to ensure proper arrangements for drinking water and shaded waiting areas for patients and attendants.
During the review of the Chief Minister Free Medicine Scheme, officials were instructed to ensure uninterrupted availability of all essential medicines so that patients do not face inconvenience. Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation Managing Director Pukhraj Sen was directed to immediately address shortages and expedite pending rate contracts for medicines.
The government also warned of strict action in cases of negligence in medicine storage and directed regular monitoring of warehouses and distribution centres to prevent medicines from expiring due to excess stock accumulation.
The meeting further reviewed hospital equipment functionality and health infrastructure projects. Hospitals were asked to report surplus equipment for redistribution and ensure faulty equipment is repaired promptly.
