Patna: AIIMS Patna has been formally empanelled under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), a move expected to improve access to specialised healthcare for ex-servicemen and their dependants in Bihar and neighbouring states.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Dr Prashant Kumar Singh, Medical Superintendent, AIIMS Patna, and Col Arun Lal, Director, Regional Centre, ECHS Patna, during a ceremony held at the institute.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Prof. (Brig.) Dr Raju Agarwal, Executive Director of AIIMS Patna, and Brig Amit Bedi, Deputy General Officer Commanding, Bihar and Jharkhand Sub Area.
Senior Officials Attend Signing Ceremony
The event was attended by Nilotpal Bal, Deputy Director (Administration), Prof. Punam Prasad Bhadani, Dean (Academics), Dr Sanjay Pandey, Dean (Research), senior officials from Regional Centre, ECHS Patna and other AIIMS Patna officials.
According to the institute, the empanelment is aimed at strengthening healthcare access for the veteran community through affordable and evidence-based medical services.
Improved Access to Specialised Healthcare
AIIMS Patna said the empanelment would reduce the need for many ECHS beneficiaries in Bihar to travel to metropolitan cities for specialised treatment.
The institute currently offers nearly 1,000 inpatient beds and more than 40 speciality and super-speciality departments. Its services include oncology, cardiology, neurology, nephrology, trauma care and critical care medicine, supported by advanced diagnostic facilities, modern laboratories and multidisciplinary clinical teams.
Officials said the inclusion of AIIMS Patna in the ECHS network is expected to strengthen referrals from ECHS polyclinics, reduce treatment delays and improve continuity of care for veterans and their families.
Commitment to Veteran Welfare
Speaking at the event, Prof. (Brig.) Dr Raju Agarwal said the empanelment reflected AIIMS Patna’s commitment to serving those who had dedicated their lives to the nation.
He said the partnership with ECHS would provide veterans and their families with timely access to advanced healthcare while reinforcing AIIMS Patna’s role as a leading healthcare institution focused on clinical excellence, innovation and patient care.
Officials said the collaboration reflects the shared commitment of AIIMS Patna and ECHS to delivering accessible, affordable and high-quality healthcare to ex-servicemen and their dependants.
