Jammu, 09 March (H.S.): Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo on Monday directed officials to enforce stricter quality checks and constant monitoring of drug supplies in government hospitals while reviewing the performance and functioning of the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (JKMSCL).

Itoo emphasized on stricter quality checks and greater accountability in the procurement and supply of medicines and medical equipments for Health facilities across Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that patient safety remains government’s top priority.

The Minister made these remarks while chairing a high-level review meeting at Civil Secretariat here to assess the performance and functioning of Jammu & Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (JKMSCL).

Addressing the officers during the meeting, the Minister underlined the impact of corporation’s responsibilities, stating that JKMSCL plays a vital role in public healthcare delivery system by ensuring timely availability of medicines, surgical consumables and medical equipments in government health institutions. “Any compromise in quality, transparency or efficiency will not be tolerated, as it directly affects patient safety and credibility of the public health system”, she maintained.

While reviewing quality control measures and other protocols, the Minister instructed the MD to maintain constant check on the quality of medicines and equipments procured by the Corporation. “Tighten quality control protocols at every stage, from procurement and testing to storage and final distribution”, she said.

The Minister further instructed the corporation to ensure that only certified, safe and standard-compliant medicines and equipment reach government hospitals, warning that any negligence in quality verification will invite strict action.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar