Kerala achieving comprehensive and structural changes in health-care sector: Veena George
Ms. George said the government had implemented major infrastructure upgrades and reforms across the State's health sector. She highlighted that the Thrissur MCH alone had witnessed developmental activities exceeding ₹680 crore, including the upcoming super specialty block and mother and child block, which would expand the hospital's built-up area from 85,000 sq ft to 10 lakh sq ft.
'Our next big goal is achieving Universal Health Coverage, ensuring accessible health care for all,' the Minister said.
Fall in infant mortality
She acknowledged the key role played by the Thrissur MCH in reducing infant mortality in Attappady, one of Kerala's most vulnerable tribal regions.
In the academic domain, the Minister noted that significant progress had been made. The number of BSc Nursing seats in government institutions increased from 491 to 1,250.
Increasing patronage
The Minister pointed out that more people were now turning to government hospitals for treatment. As per the outpatient registration data, 13.5 crore patients have sought care from government medical colleges. In the inpatient category too, government hospitals have seen a rise in trust and utilisation. Between January and December 2024, 6.5 lakh patients received free treatment under the health insurance scheme.
'After the formation of the State Health Agency, the maximum insurance coverage per family was increased from ₹30,000 to ₹5 lakh a year,' she added.
Projects Inaugurated
The Minister inaugurated eight completed projects and laid the foundation stone for three new projects. The completed projects include 128-slice CT scanner set up at ₹4.78 crore; local OP facility (₹20 lakh); HDS Laboratory (₹9.9 lakh); waste disposal area (₹20 lakh); sub-store at Chest Hospital (₹39.5 lakh) and operation theatre enhancements. The foundation stones were laid for three major projects amounting to ₹16.56 crore.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Thrissur Medical College Alumni Auditorium. Xavier Chittilappilly, MLA, presided. K.V. Viswanathan, Director (In-Charge), Department of Medical Education, presented a project report.
At Pazhayannur FHC
The Minister also inaugurated the newly completed laboratory and several health infrastructure projects at the Pazhayannur Family Health Centre (FHC), developed under the Aardram Mission.
Speaking at the event, Ms. George said the State government had succeeded in making health care more accessible and people-centric by providing free treatment and quality services across government hospitals and health centres. The event was presided over by U.R. Pradeep, MLA. K.J. Reena, Director of the Health Services, was the chief guest.
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