Srinagar, May 26: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Monday said the Omar Abdullah-led government is committed towards strengthening of healthcare facilities and infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir.
She inaugurated the state-of-the-art Histopathology Laboratory, a dedicated Oncology Services Unit and an advanced Electroencephalography (EEG) Lab at Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial (JLNM) Hospital Rainawari here. MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Ali Sadiq; Director Health Services Kashmir, ADC Srinagar, CMO Srinagar, Medical Superintendent JLNM Hospital, Heads of different specialities and other concerned officers were also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the Health Minister emphasised the importance of accessible, quality healthcare services. “This initiative is not just about upgrading infrastructure, but having accessibility to people with timely and accurate diagnosis, improving treatment outcomes and bringing specialised medical care closer to their vicinities,” she said.
The minister further highlighted that this new Histopathology Lab, equipped to provide in-depth tissue analysis, will be crucial for early and accurate detection of diseases, particularly cancers. “The introduction of Oncology Services will also support patients with consultation, diagnosis, and treatment planning under a specialized framework while EEG Lab will bring advanced neurological diagnostic tools to the hospital, enabling better assessment and treatment of brain-related disorders,” she said.
On the sidelines of the inauguration, the Health Minister held a brief meeting and reviewed the performance and functioning of hospital. During the meeting, she emphasized on better coordination between departments and community feedback mechanisms to enhance service quality. She urged the hospital administration to ensure transparency in operations and regular training for staff to meet evolving healthcare needs.
Itoo called a responsive and accountable healthcare system that prioritises patient dignity and timely treatment. After the meeting, she also toured several critical sections of the hospital as well as wards and diagnostic laboratories. She interacted directly with patients, attendants, and frontline medical staff to gain first-hand insight into the challenges and operational dynamics of the hospital.
Later, the minister visited the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Srinagar and took stock of its functioning. During the visit, she inspected Brian Stimulation Centre, Addiction Treatment Facility and other wards of the hospital.
Interacting with the doctors and other staff on the occasion, Itoo stressed the necessity of collaborative efforts among government bodies, educational institutions and mental health organisations to develop a robust framework for mental health services across Jammu and Kashmir. She called for proactive measures to address issues like substance abuse and the psychological impact of social challenges on young minds.
