Kerala will introduce round-the-clock specialty services at district and general hospitals across the state within the next six months. The initiative aims to make specialist healthcare more accessible and reduce the need for patients to travel to medical colleges.
Initially, at least one hospital in every district will provide 24-hour specialty care, followed by a phased expansion to other hospitals.
Focus on Key Specialties
The programme will cover specialties such as general medicine, surgery, orthopaedics, paediatrics and gynaecology. Hospitals will also provide specialist consultations and surgeries during night hours.
According to The Times of India, the initiative could help reduce the patient load at medical colleges by strengthening specialist services at district-level hospitals.
Strengthening Hospital Infrastructure
The Health Department will assess hospital infrastructure, staffing and equipment requirements before rolling out the services. It will also deploy doctors, nurses and paramedical staff based on individual hospital needs.
A special officer will coordinate the implementation, monitor progress and submit regular reports.
The initiative is part of Kerala’s broader effort to strengthen public healthcare. By expanding specialist services at district hospitals, the state aims to provide timely, accessible and quality care closer to patients’ homes.