Bihar’s Health Department Plans Libraries, Rest Houses, and More in Hospitals

Patna : The Bihar health department, under the leadership of Health Minister Mangal Pandey, is implementing a series of reforms to improve facilities across government hospitals in the state. As part of the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification, libraries equipped with medical books and research journals will be established in district Sadar Hospitals and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). The initiative aims to keep doctors and paramedical staff updated with the latest advances in treatment and medical research. Additionally, daily newspapers and magazines will be provided to ensure they remain informed about current developments.

Rest Houses for Patients’ Relatives

In a bid to ease the burden on families accompanying patients, rest houses are being planned for PHCs, similar to those already built at Sadar Hospital and Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur. These rest houses will be equipped with beds, fans, and electricity. However, delays in securing electricity connections have prevented the operationalisation of the rest houses at Sadar and SKMCH. According to officials, the detailed project report (DPR) for SKMCH’s rest house did not include provisions for electricity, leading to a standstill. The district magistrate recently directed that the rest houses be made functional, with SKMCH now tasked with completing the necessary electrical work.

Paediatric OPDs and Special Care Units

To improve paediatric care, separate outpatient departments (OPDs) for children and newborns will be set up in PHCs and Community Health Centres (CHCs), following the model already in place at Sadar Hospitals and medical colleges. Paediatric wards will also be established, with funding of ₹6 lakh allocated per facility. Additionally, special neonatal care units will be introduced in Sadar Hospitals and PHCs to enhance care for newborns.

Enhanced Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres

Efforts are underway to upgrade the facilities at nutrition rehabilitation centres (NRCs) operating in Sadar Hospitals. The focus will be on enhancing the quality of care and ensuring better outcomes for malnourished children.

Canteens for Medical Staff

To support doctors and paramedical staff, the health department plans to establish canteens in all hospitals, including PHCs and CHCs. These canteens will provide affordable and hygienic food options. At present, “Didi’s Kitchen,” a community-based initiative run by Jeevika, operates in Sadar Hospitals.