Chümoukedima, 24 February (MTNews): The Chief Secretary of Nagaland, J Alam, graced the inauguration ceremony of the North East Regional Multi-Disciplinary Paramedical Institute (NERMPI) at the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR) today.
Speaking at the inaugural, Chief Secretary Alam emphasized the persistent challenges in the healthcare sector despite significant growth, particularly in service delivery. He highlighted the shortage of trained paramedics, which hinders access to quality healthcare, especially in remote areas. Alam noted that although the sanctioned ratio of public healthcare providers per 10,000 population is 9 according to the National Health Mission (NHM), the current ratio stands at 7, necessitating urgent attention and resolution.
Urging investment in paramedic training programs and increased recruitment and retention of healthcare workers, Alam emphasized the importance of preparing for future healthcare challenges.
He underscored the role of skilled paramedics in advancing healthcare delivery across the state and commended NERMPI as part of the government’s efforts to enhance healthcare services.
Alam highlighted the government’s strides in the healthcare sector, including the establishment of the first Medical College in Kohima, upgrading the School of Nursing into a College of Nursing, and the construction of a 150-bedded hospital in NIMSR Kohima. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to start a second Medical College in Mon and implement the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) to achieve universal health coverage.
Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) aims to achieve universal health coverage with a total of 20,97,712 beneficiaries including about 67% of the government employees (119,037) enrolled in the State’s flagship health insurance scheme as of February 2024.
Further, he acknowledged support from various sources, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), for the establishment of a 400-bedded hospital at NIMSR Kohima and expressed optimism for a new era in the state’s healthcare system.
“These initiatives underscore the government’s efforts towards Nagaland Sustainable Development Goal Vision 2030 which states that by 2030, Nagaland will ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages by providing equitable, affordable and quality healthcare services to the people of the state,” he said.
He expressed hope that in 10 years down the line Nagaland residents will have access to the healthcare they deserve within Nagaland and not go out in search for medical treatment outside. He wished the institute exponential growth, enlightenment, and transformative impact, not only within the state but across the entire region.