In the past year, Gilgit-Baltistan’s healthcare system has made strides never before witnessed. District Headquarter Hospitals (DHQs) in important districts have been made operational, consultants have been recruited via Al-Shifa, and doctors and consultants have been recruited at higher than normal salaries.
The Health Department of Gilgit-Baltistan has, per Chief Secretary GB Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani, recruited a record number of medical professionals.
Details suggest that bringing in a large number of doctors and consultants is a good first step toward solving the healthcare problems plaguing the region. Thirty-four Al-Shifa consultants, thirteen chief consultants, sixty senior consultants, ninety consultants, and sixty experts all work for a flat rate. As a result, there are now 267 qualified specialists available.
In addition to bringing on board experts, the region has also hired 468 GDMOs, as well as 89 District Officers and 89 Lady District Officers. This increases the overall number of doctors and surgeons on board to 557 from 557. With more doctors available, people in the area will be able to get the care they need.
Resources were mismanaged in Gilgit-Baltistan
A recent report found that in Gilgit-Baltistan, resources had been underutilized for far too long. Resources have been appropriated for private use rather than being invested in the social sector, where the greatest need lies. There has been a decline in order, but things are beginning to turn around.
Two vehicles from the Governor’s convoy have been delivered to the Provincial Headquarters Hospital and the City Hospital in Gilgit. The medical staff and doctors will use these vehicles for transportation. Vehicles will be adapted for medical purposes, and only those in the medical profession will be permitted to drive them. The Governor has vowed to continue working for progress, and he encourages others to do the same.
Collectively, these advancements are a huge step forward for Gilgit-Baltistan’s healthcare system. Improvements in infrastructure and the hiring of more healthcare professionals are steps in the right direction as the region works to address its healthcare needs.
Misuse of government vehicles in GB is something that may be brought up here. Last year, the British government asked the Ministry of Finance to purchase more than 32 high-end automobiles, but the request was denied due to budgetary concerns. The regional government’s top officials requested brand new Land Cruisers, Toyota Fortuners, and Honda Revo SUVs.
To read our article about “Petrol can be Rs. 100 per litre low after Russian Oil Import” click here.
