The Leader of Opposition in Meghalaya, Ronnie V Lyngdoh, has called on the state government to propose the upgrade of North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) to an AIIMS-like institution. Lyngdoh raised his concerns during the Question Hour of the Legislative Assembly, highlighting the lack of advanced healthcare facilities at NEIGRIHMS.
Lyngdoh pointed out that NEIGRIHMS is still lacking departments such as endocrinology, nephrology with a dialysis unit, gastroenterology, organ transplant, plastic surgery, burns unit, pediatric surgery, medical oncology, and nuclear science. He also mentioned that several other states, including Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur, have requested the establishment of AIIMS-like institutes in their respective states.
The Leader of Opposition highlighted the fact that many doctors from NEIGRIHMS have joined AIIMS, Guwahati, due to better opportunities and treatment facilities. He stressed the need for comprehensive healthcare services in Meghalaya to reduce the financial burden on residents who cannot afford treatment outside the state.
Lyngdoh urged the government to take the matter seriously, emphasizing that NEIGRIHMS already has the necessary facilities and infrastructure, with additional infrastructure improvements required for the upgrade. He also pointed out that the central government would not have to spend a significant amount of money on the upgrade, as there is no issue of land availability.
In response, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh acknowledged the need for an AIIMS-like institution in Meghalaya, stating that it would provide access to state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. She informed the Assembly that conversations have already taken place with the Union Health Minister regarding the proposal.
The Leader of Opposition expressed his satisfaction that the state government has taken up the matter with the Centre, highlighting the many benefits, including financial and administrative powers, that come with an AIIMS tag.
Overall, the upgrade of NEIGRIHMS to an AIIMS-like institution would greatly enhance healthcare facilities in Meghalaya and provide residents with advanced medical services. The proposal is a step in the right direction towards improving the overall healthcare infrastructure in the state.