SKIMS Soura gets approval to start DM critical care medicine program

Srinagar, Nov 22: Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura has got approval for the launch of its DM Critical Care Medicine program, a significant milestone in advancing healthcare delivery in Jammu and Kashmir.
Director SKIMS/EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie said the Department of Critical Care Medicine at SKIMS is the only separate and approved Department in the Union Territory, catering to critically ill patients from major hospitals across J&K and national institutions. He termed the approval a major accomplishment for the Institute.
“Equipped with state-of-the-art ventilators and life-saving support systems, the department operates at 100 percent bed occupancy, underscoring the urgent need for expanded critical care facilities,” the director said.
Prof. Ganie underscored the need to have a 200 bedded Critical Care Block at SKIMS and underlined that the demand for critical care facilities is increasing.
“There is a need to increase the number of Critical Care beds not only in our institution but also in other institutions of J&K,” he said.
The director said SKIMS administration will make every possible effort and work out a detailed plan for a 200 bedded Critical Care Block and submit it to the govt. for consideration.
Dean Medical Faculty, SKIMS, Prof. Shariq R. Masoodi said the approval came following a rigorous evaluation and the National Medical Commission granted permission for the program with an initial intake of two seats for the academic year 2024-25.
“This academic initiative will elevate quality care for critically ill patients, strengthen healthcare infrastructure, enhance emergency preparedness, contribute to societal well-being and provide skilled manpower for J&K and the country,” he said.
The Department of Critical Care Medicine SKIMS headed by Dr. Mohamad Akbar Shah have also expressed their gratitude to Director SKIMS, Dean Medical Faculty, Head NMC Section Prof. Fazal Q. Parray, Additional Director, Medical Superintendent and Academic Registrar for their tireless efforts in making this program a reality.
Dr. Mohamad Akbar while reflecting on the DM program said that the team of Critical care is highly grateful to Director SKIMS and ESOG in this regard.
“We are indebted to the Dean Medical faculty for his guidance, help and hard work and timely communication and vigorous follow up with NMC made it possible. We are really grateful to the NMC Head Prof. Fazal Q. Parray and his team for their tireless efforts,” he said.