Mann Government Takes Bold Steps in Revolutionizing Healthcare Services in Punjab
Pioneering Initiatives for Accessible and Affordable Healthcare
The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has made remarkable advancements in healthcare, ensuring that the state’s residents, particularly those in rural areas, benefit from accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare services. Under the leadership of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, several innovative healthcare initiatives have been launched, making substantial strides in improving public health across the state.
A flagship initiative, the ‘Aam Aadmi Clinics’ (AACs), has been a game changer in transforming primary healthcare delivery. With 881 AACs now operational—316 in urban areas and 565 in rural regions—these clinics have treated over 2.58 crore people, providing free treatment and access to 80 types of medicines and 38 diagnostic tests. The initiative has resulted in a significant reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, saving the population an estimated Rs 1,200 crore.
The Diagnostic Initiative, launched in January 2024, ensures the availability of affordable diagnostic services at government hospitals. With 202 X-ray and 389 ultrasound centers currently operational, this initiative has already benefited over 10 lakh patients, offering essential diagnostic services at nominal rates.
The ‘STEMI Project’ aims to address heart attack emergencies by providing free thrombolysis treatments, including Tenecteplase injections (which typically cost Rs 25,000 to Rs 35,000). This project, already helping over 7,000 patients, will soon expand to 15 more districts, enhancing access to critical care.
Additionally, the Punjab Stroke Project, launched in October 2024, offers free mechanical thrombectomy to ischemic stroke patients. This innovative program follows the Hub and Spoke model and is expected to treat approximately 200 stroke patients annually, providing life-saving treatments to those in need.
The ‘Har Shukarvaar Dengue Te Vaar’ campaign has been another success, leading to a 55% reduction in dengue cases in 2024 and a 70% decrease in related deaths, marking a significant public health achievement.
For kidney patients, the Punjab Government has partnered with NGOs to provide free dialysis services. Since the launch of this program, 32,800 dialysis sessions have been provided to 4,831 patients. In addition, the ‘Farishtey Scheme’ has been introduced to reward individuals who assist road accident victims, recognizing and rewarding 66 people for their heroic efforts in saving lives.
Further bolstering healthcare infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences in SAS Nagar, offering advanced medical treatments such as UGI Endoscopy and Fibroscan, bringing world-class healthcare to Punjab.
To promote holistic well-being, the ‘CM Di Yogshala’ program has gained tremendous popularity, with over 1 lakh people participating daily in 3,284 yoga sessions across Punjab, fostering a healthier lifestyle among the population.
Through these innovative healthcare projects, the Mann Government is ensuring that top-tier healthcare services reach every corner of Punjab, significantly improving the health and well-being of its residents.