Bhubaneswar, 12 May (H.S.): In a bid to further strengthen healthcare services and ensure quality treatment across all levels, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department Ashwathy S chaired a high-level review meeting today at the department’s conference hall.

The meeting was attended by National Health Mission Managing Director Brunda D, Special Secretary Bijay Mahapatra, directors of various health wings, additional secretaries, and senior officials. Medical college deans, superintendents, Chief District Medical and Public Health Officers (CDM & PHOs), and other district-level health officials joined the meeting virtually.

The review focused on key aspects of the state’s healthcare delivery system, including district-wise health services, disease control programmes, availability of doctors and paramedical staff, medicine supply, and hospital infrastructure.

The Health Secretary directed officials to take proactive measures in view of the upcoming monsoon season. Emphasising preventive healthcare, she instructed food inspectors to intensify surveillance to prevent cases of food poisoning and jaundice. District Collectors were also asked to submit regular reports on the situation.

Officials were further directed to remain alert and proactive to ensure timely and quality healthcare delivery. Strengthening preparedness for disease control and emergency response was highlighted as a priority.

The meeting also reviewed major health programmes including maternal and child health initiatives, immunisation drives, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, AYUSH services, public grievance mechanisms, PM relief measures, fire safety protocols, sectoral meetings, and child health programmes.

Instructions were issued to all healthcare institutions to ensure improved patient services and better facilities for hospitalised patients. The Secretary also emphasised the use of AI-based monitoring systems to track staff attendance and ensure accountability across health facilities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda