Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) chaired the Governing Body meeting of the State Health Society (SHS), NHM UT of Ladakh, on January 24 at the Governor’s Secretariat. The meeting reviewed progress on various healthcare initiatives and deliberated on future plans to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the Union Territory.

The meeting was attended by CEC, LAHDC-Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson; CEC, LAHDC-Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhon; Member of Parliament, Ladakh, Hanifa Jaan; Advisor to the LG, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, IAS; Principal Secretary, Sanjeev Khirwar, IAS; Commissioner/Secretary, Dr. Vasantha Kumar, IAS; and other officials and members of the Governing Body.

During the meeting, significant emphasis was placed on reducing the infant mortality rate (IMR) in Ladakh, with a steadfast commitment to achieving a single-digit IMR. Strategies to meet this ambitious target included conducting facility-level death audits to identify and address gaps in healthcare delivery.

A key development highlighted was the establishment of Catheterization Laboratories (Cath Labs) for cardiac procedures at SNM Hospital, Leh, and District Hospital, Kargil. These facilities, slated to be operational by May 2025, are expected to greatly enhance access to critical cardiac care for Ladakh’s residents.

To address the shortage of specialist medical professionals, several proposals were approved to increase their availability in the region. This will be achieved through the introduction of diploma courses and upskilling programs for existing doctors.

In a significant effort to alleviate the financial burden on patients, the UT government has implemented a policy offering free diagnostic services, including CT scans, MRIs, and lab tests, at government hospitals. This initiative has already led to a substantial reduction in patients’ out-of-pocket expenses.

The progress toward achieving universal health coverage in Ladakh was also discussed. The government is actively enrolling all eligible residents under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission scheme to ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage for the population.

Additional initiatives discussed included upgrading maternity healthcare facilities, training paramedics and doctors, establishing pediatric care centers, and expanding telemedicine services. These measures aim to further strengthen Ladakh’s healthcare infrastructure and improve accessibility, especially in remote areas.

The meeting also addressed challenges such as manpower shortages and internet connectivity issues in remote areas. Public representatives were urged to encourage community participation in preventive healthcare programs and annual checkups.

The Governing Body expressed satisfaction with the progress made and reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for the people of Ladakh through a collaborative and inclusive approach.