Important Facts of the News
- Total investment approved: Rs 213.75 crore
- Five high-resolution MRI machines worth Rs 95 crore
- MRI machines to be installed at IGMC Shimla, Chamiyana Hospital, Nerchowk Medical College, Nahan Medical College and Chamba Medical College
- Fourteen CT imaging machines for seven medical colleges costing Rs 28 crore
- Thirty-five digital radiography units worth Rs 8.75 crore and fourteen ceiling-mounted DR units worth Rs 14 crore
- Fourteen advanced ultrasound machines for seven medical colleges at a total cost of Rs 14 crore
- Seven digital mammography units costing Rs 14 crore
- Eight Imaging Archive and Retrieval Technology systems worth Rs 40 crore
- Kamla Nehru Hospital among institutions receiving imaging archive systems
- State also filling vacancies of doctors, paramedical staff and technicians
State Plans Large-Scale Modernization
The Himachal Pradesh Government has initiated a major expansion of diagnostic infrastructure across government health institutions. The plan, prepared under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, aims to ensure faster and more accurate disease detection for patients. The total investment earmarked for this initiative is Rs 213.75 crore.
Advanced Diagnostic Equipment for Medical Colleges
As part of the upgrade, five high-resolution MRI machines worth Rs 95 crore are being procured for medical institutions including IGMC Shimla, Chamiyana Hospital, Nerchowk Medical College, Nahan Medical College and Chamba Medical College. Each of the seven medical colleges in the state will receive two new CT imaging machines, with a combined cost of Rs 28 crore.
Expanded Radiography and Ultrasound Capacity
The plan includes installation of thirty-five digital radiography units worth Rs 8.75 crore. Additionally, fourteen ceiling-suspended DR X-ray systems valued at Rs 14 crore will be set up. Seven medical colleges will also receive advanced ultrasound imaging machines, two each, with a total allocation of Rs 14 crore.
Improved Screening and Data Storage
Seven digital mammography units worth Rs 14 crore are also part of the upgradation for early detection and screening needs. To modernize medical data management, eight Imaging Archive and Retrieval Technology systems valued at Rs 40 crore are being installed across seven medical colleges and Kamla Nehru Hospital in Shimla.
Focus on Local Access to Advanced Treatment
The government aims to reduce the need for patients to travel outside the state for expensive diagnostic tests. The Chief Minister has held several discussions with medical professionals at Chamiyana, IGMC Shimla and Tanda Medical College to shape the reforms.
Strengthening Medical Workforce and Training
Along with infrastructure improvements, the government is filling vacant posts of doctors, technicians and paramedical staff to address manpower gaps. Professional training initiatives are also being prioritized to improve skill levels and service delivery within health institutions.