Udupi: Govt hospitals should actively showcase successful surgeries, quality treatment and positive patient outcomes to build public confidence and encourage more people to use public healthcare facilities, health and family welfare minister UT Khader said on Sunday.During a review of healthcare facilities in Udupi district, Khader directed district hospital authorities to hold press conferences at least twice a month to highlight medical success stories and improvements in patient care. Taluk hospital officials, he said, should conduct similar media briefings at least once a month.“People should be made aware of the quality treatment and successful surgeries being carried out at govt hospitals. This will help build confidence in the public healthcare system,” the minister said.Khader, who inspected the new district hospital building, reviewed its functioning, maintenance and infrastructure. He interacted with patients and sought feedback on treatment by doctors and care provided by nursing staff. Patients reportedly gave positive feedback about the hospital.The minister also inspected the operation theatre and reviewed the equipment and additional facilities required. He discussed infrastructure needs with district surgeon Dr H Ashok and DC Swaroopa TK.At the Women and Child Hospital, Khader interacted with patients before chairing a health review meeting. He expressed satisfaction after being informed that the hospital conducts more than 150 deliveries a month. He also reviewed delivery figures at taluk hospitals and called for further improvement in services.Officials informed the minister that the district hospital receives 700 to 800 outpatients daily, with the footfall crossing 900 on Mondays.Khader interacted with doctors and programme implementation officers and reviewed surgeries and healthcare programmes across the district. He directed officials to strengthen surgical services and assured necessary support for improving facilities.The minister also reviewed the condition of the Women and Child Hospital building and its repair requirements. He sought details about a large pit dug in front of the facility and discussed the issue with the DC and district surgeon.A high-level meeting involving senior health department officials will be held in Bengaluru on July 16 to discuss repairs to the Women and Child Hospital, and other infrastructure requirements.
