SRINAGAR, AUGUST 8: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Civil Secretariat here on the welfare and rehabilitation of leprosy patients, with emphasis on dignified healthcare and social security.
The meeting was attended by MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Ali Sadiq; Commissioner SMC, Fazlul Haseeb; Director SKIMS, Prof. M.Ashraf Ganie; Principal GMC Srinagar, Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah; Director Health Services Kashmir, CMO Srinagar and representatives of Leprosy patients and Leper Hospital, Bharar.
During the meeting, the Health Minister took review of various issues including allotment of government quarters for leprosy-affected families, assessment of reconstructive surgeries conducted over the past two years, and provision of caretakers for patients without family support.
Speaking during the meeting, Sakeena Itoo reiterated that the Omar Abdullah-led Government is committed for compassionate healthcare and dignified rehabilitation for every vulnerable section of society. She directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination and timely rehabilitation of Leprosy patients.
She directed the concerned officers to ensure immediate allotment of residential quarters to eligible residents without any further delay as well as provision of a dedicated ambulance for the hospital to ensure timely access to medical care.
The Minister also directed to provide free medicines, investigations and treatment for all leprosy patients requiring medical care at any government hospital in Srinagar, ensuring they receive quality healthcare without financial burden.
Speaking during the meeting, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Ali Sadiq expressed gratitude to Health Minister for taking prompt decisions for welfare for the Leprosy patients. He said that these decisions will go a long way in improving the quality of life, dignity and healthcare of the residents of the Leper Hospital, Bharar.
