Patna: In a major boost to emergency healthcare services, Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) has started a dedicated 24-hour Respiratory Emergency Unit to provide specialised treatment for patients suffering from lung and breathing-related illnesses.
The move comes at a time when respiratory ailments are witnessing a rise in the state capital due to increasing pollution levels and frequent weather fluctuations.
Until now, patients with respiratory conditions were admitted to the general medicine emergency ward, where specialist consultation often took time, leading to delays in treatment. Hospital authorities said the dedicated respiratory emergency unit will ensure immediate medical attention and specialised care.
20 Beds Reserved for Respiratory Patients
PMCH has earmarked 20 beds in its old emergency ward exclusively for patients with respiratory illnesses.
Hospital Superintendent Dr Rajeev Kumar Singh said the facility has been equipped with modern medical infrastructure to manage emergency cases related to pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis (TB), bronchitis, lung infections and other pulmonary diseases.
Patients will have access to oxygen support systems, nebulisation services, pulmonary function tests and other emergency treatment facilities under one roof.
Bronchoscopy Facility Available
The hospital has also arranged bronchoscopy services on the third floor of the CUB Building. Other essential diagnostic investigations will be conducted within the emergency department itself to ensure faster diagnosis and treatment.
Officials said the integrated setup will reduce delays and improve outcomes for critically ill respiratory patients.
Relief for Patients During Emergencies
The round-the-clock service is expected to provide significant relief to patients who previously had to depend on private hospitals during late-night emergencies or critical situations.
With specialised doctors and dedicated facilities available at all hours, PMCH aims to strengthen public healthcare services for respiratory disease management in Bihar.
Sleep Studies and Allergy Testing Planned
The respiratory centre will also offer sleep study services to diagnose and treat disorders such as sleep apnea and chronic snoring.
In addition, an allergy testing centre will be established to identify allergies triggered by dust, smoke, pollen and other environmental factors.
Advanced procedures including bronchoscopy and thoracoscopy will further help doctors detect serious conditions such as lung cancer and tuberculosis with greater accuracy.
Emerging as a Specialised Respiratory Care Centre
Hospital authorities believe the newly established unit has the potential to develop into a major referral centre for respiratory diseases in Bihar, offering specialised diagnosis, treatment and emergency care under a single system.
