Bilaspur, Friday, 07.03.25-: The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare visited the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bilaspur and inaugurated several key healthcare facilities. During his visit, he interacted with AIIMS officials, doctors, and patients and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare services.

Inspection of Jan Aushadhi Pharmacy and Interaction with Beneficiaries

The minister inspected the Jan Aushadhi Pharmacy located in the B-Block of AIIMS Bilaspur and interacted with the beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). He gathered feedback on the quality, efficacy, and availability of medicines. Beneficiaries expressed their satisfaction, stating that the scheme provides them with high-quality medicines at affordable prices, significantly reducing their treatment costs. The minister emphasized the expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras and ensuring seamless availability of medicines.

Launch of AMRIT Pharmacy – 50% Discount on Life-Saving Medicines

The minister inaugurated the AMRIT (Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment) Pharmacy on the third floor of AIIMS Bilaspur. This pharmacy will offer life-saving medicines at a discount of over 50%. He announced that this is the 225th AMRIT Pharmacy in the country, benefiting patients with cost-effective treatment options.

Inspection of Nuclear Medicine Block and Inauguration of Advanced Scanners

The minister visited the Nuclear Medicine Block to review the latest healthcare facilities available. He stated that the government is continuously working to enhance medical services at AIIMS Bilaspur.

Precision Diagnosis with PET CT and SPECT CT Scanners

As part of the visit, he inaugurated PET CT (Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography) and SPECT CT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) scanners, installed at a cost of INR 25 crores. These advanced imaging tools will help in the accurate diagnosis of cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. While PET CT will facilitate the early detection of cancer and heart diseases, SPECT CT will aid in detailed examinations of bones, kidneys, and heart conditions. The minister highlighted that these facilities will provide patients with accurate and timely diagnoses, leading to more effective treatment.

Foundation Laid for INR 10 Crore Virology Research and Diagnostic Laboratory

In a move to strengthen national health security, the minister laid the foundation stone for a Virology Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) with an investment of INR 10 crores. The laboratory will be instrumental in the detection of infectious diseases and viral outbreaks. It will also play a crucial role in virus research, vaccine development, and epidemic management in the future.

Bhoomi Pujan for INR 15 Crore Rest House for Patients’ Families

Acknowledging the needs of patients traveling from remote areas, the minister performed the bhoomi pujan (groundbreaking ceremony) for a Rest House, to be constructed at a cost of INR 15 crores. This facility will be a great relief for patients and their families who require long-term treatment at AIIMS. MP Anurag Thakur suggested increasing the capacity of the rest house from 250 to 500 beds. The minister assured that the facility would provide a comfortable and secure stay for patients' families.

Plan to Open 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by 2027

The minister announced that 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras will be opened across India by 2027 to provide affordable and high-quality medicines to people. He emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to make healthcare more accessible and cost-effective for all citizens.

Construction of INR 4.90 Crore Indoor Stadium at AIIMS Bilaspur

To promote a healthy lifestyle among students and medical professionals, the minister announced the construction of an indoor stadium at AIIMS Bilaspur, with an estimated cost of INR 4.90 crores. This facility will provide better sports and fitness amenities.

Expansion of Healthcare Services in Remote Areas through Bhishma Cube Arogya Maitri Scheme

Under the Bhishma Cube Arogya Maitri Scheme, AIIMS Bilaspur will receive support in extending advanced medical services to remote areas. The initiative aims to provide cutting-edge healthcare facilities to rural and hilly regions.

Commitment to Making AIIMS Bilaspur a World-Class Medical Institution

The Union Health Minister reiterated the commitment to developing AIIMS Bilaspur as a world-class medical institution. He emphasized the expansion of healthcare schemes and facilities, ensuring affordable and advanced medical services for every citizen. He also commended AIIMS doctors and staff for their dedicated services and assured the addition of more facilities in the future.

Dignitaries Present at the Event

The event was attended by MP Anurag Singh Thakur, former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, Himachal BJP President Rajeev Bindal, Professor D.N. Sharma, AIIMS Executive Director Randeep Sharma, MLAs from Shri Naina Devi Ji Ranadhir Sharma, Jitram Katwal, and Trilok Jamwal.