Chandigarh, 14 September 2026:In a significant step towards strengthening patient-centric healthcare services, the Health Department, UT Chandigarh, today formally launched Project “Saarthi” at Government Multi-Specialty Hospital (GMSH), Sector 16, Chandigarh, in collaboration with the NSS Cell,Education Department, Chandigarh Administration.

The project was launched under the guidance of Director Health Services, Chandigarh, Dr. Suman Singh, in the presence of Dr Neena Medical Superintendent, Dr Parmjit Singh Deputy Medical Superintendent, Nodal Officer Dr. Sandeep Bansal along with other hospital officials and members of the NSS team.

Project “Saarthi” is a dedicated patient-support initiative designed to provide guidance, assistance and navigation support to patients and their attendants within the hospital premises. The initiative will particularly benefit elderly persons, persons with disabilities, patients requiring additional assistance, and those unfamiliar with hospital procedures and services.

Under the project, trained “Saarthis” will assist patients in navigating different areas of the hospital and guide them towards various departments, diagnostic facilities, registration counters and other essential hospital services. They will also help patients and attendants understand the hospital pathway and access services in a timely and convenient manner.

The initiative aims to reduce difficulties faced by patients and attendants, improve accessibility to healthcare services, minimise confusion and waiting-related inconvenience, and create a more welcoming and compassionate hospital environment.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director Health Services emphasised that healthcare is not limited to diagnosis and treatment alone, but also includes ensuring that every patient is able to access the required services with dignity, empathy and ease. Project Saarthi is a step towards strengthening this patient-friendly approach and making GMSH-16 a more accessible and responsive healthcare institution.

The collaboration with the NSS Cell, Education Department will further strengthen the initiative by involving trained volunteers in providing assistance and support to patients, thereby fostering a spirit of service, empathy and social responsibility among young volunteers.

The Health Department expressed confidence that Project “Saarthi” will emerge as an important patient-support mechanism at GMSH-16 and contribute significantly towards improving the overall patient experience.