Delay persists for Advanced Paediatrics Centre at Chandigarh’s GMSH-16

Chandigarh's plan for an Advanced Pediatrics Centre at Government Multi-Speciality Hospital (GMSH), Sector 16, originally scheduled for completion by March 2022, has encountered substantial delays. Initiated during the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, the 32-bedded specialized pediatric unit faced setbacks, hampering its role in emergency response and health system readiness.

Clearance hurdles and operational delays

Expected to commence operations in August, the center is still awaiting critical clearances related to fire safety, lift operations, and oxygen fulfillment. The absence of these certifications has led to a stagnation of the project's timeline.

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While awaiting the center's completion, hospital authorities have repurposed machines, acquired three years ago for this project, in other sections to prevent them from becoming non-functional. This interim measure raises concerns about the hospital's preparedness and efficient resource utilization.

Anticipation amidst uncertainty

The delayed Advanced Pediatrics Centre, once operational, is anticipated to significantly enhance Chandigarh's healthcare infrastructure. Currently, pediatric patients at the secondary level are redirected to the Advanced Paediatric Centre at PGIMER, the only such facility in the region.

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Director of health services, Dr. Suman Singh, stated that an assessment of progress will determine the completion status. The center's timely establishment is crucial for bolstering Chandigarh's healthcare capabilities, especially for pediatric patients, contributing to the region's overall health system resilience.