The Delhi Govt is set to enhance diagnostic services across its public hospitals by introducing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scan facilities under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Currently, only three government hospitals—Lok Nayak, GB Pant, and Indira Gandhi Hospital—are equipped with MRI machines. Patients often face prolonged waiting periods, ranging from 30 days to six months, for these essential scans. The new proposal, pending cabinet approval, plans to install MRI machines in approximately 20 hospitals during the first phase. Once approved, the Health Department will issue tenders for the procurement and installation of these machines, enabling patients to access crucial scans free of charge.
The initiative also addresses concerns raised by the Delhi High Court regarding the inadequate number of CT scan machines in government hospitals, which currently stands at just six for a population of three crore. The court emphasized the urgent need to enhance healthcare infrastructure and fill existing vacancies in the health sector.
In addition to improving diagnostic services, the Delhi government is considering outsourcing staff through Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to manage outpatient departments (OPDs) more efficiently. This strategy aims to streamline patient registration, appointment scheduling, and other administrative tasks, further enhancing the overall healthcare delivery system.
