10-Bed ICU Project and Tele-ICU Hub at Shillong
- December 19, 2023 :: Government of Meghalaya -

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10-Bed ICU Project and Tele-ICU Hub at Shillong

The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, takes a monumental step forward in healthcare infrastructure with the launch of a state-of-the-art 10-bedded Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Project and Tele-ICU Hub and the inauguration of the 10-bed ICU Ward and Tele-ICU Hub which marks a significant milestone in enhancing critical care services across the region.

The event, held on December 19 at the State Convention Centre, Shillong, brought together key stakeholders, government officials, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to witness the unveiling of this pioneering healthcare initiative. The project aims to address the increasing demand for advanced critical care facilities and to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare services, ensuring timely and high-quality medical interventions for patients with severe health conditions.

Distinguished dignitaries in attendance were Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Government of Meghalaya as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya as the Guest of Honour.

Shri Donald Philip Wahlang, Chief Secretary, Government of Meghalaya, Shri Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, Dr. Joram Beda, Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya and Shri Ramkumar S, IAS, Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya graced the occasion as special guests. Shri Nachiket Mor, Public Health Expert & Scientist, Dr. Sudarshan Hanumappa, Founder, Karuna Trust were also present at the event. Shri Srikanth Nadhamuni, Chairman, 10BedICU, attended the event virtually.

While addressing the gathering, Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, extended his gratitude to all stakeholders who played a crucial role in making this epic ICU project a success. He informed that several ICUs are being launched at certain locations, emphasizing the aim to ensure optimal utility and reach even the most inaccessible regions.

“Our project aligns with the vision set five and a half years ago, prioritizing social sectors, with healthcare at the forefront,” he mentioned. He added, “Meghalaya has seen a drastic reduction in Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) from 200+ to 120, reflecting the transformative impact of technology on our healthcare sector. I envision a great future in showcasing how technology can revolutionize healthcare for the entire country.”

The project establishes an interconnected network between the 10-bed ICU Ward and the Tele-ICU Hub, enabling seamless communication and real-time data sharing for better patient outcomes. The 10-bed ICU has state-of-the-art medical facilities, advanced life support systems, and specialized equipment to provide comprehensive critical care services. The Tele-ICU Hub leverages technology to enable remote monitoring and consultation by intensivists and critical care specialists. This innovation ensures that even remote areas can access expert guidance in critical care management.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, stated, “The state of Meghalaya boasts a significant strength in our nursing fraternity. I call upon our nursing staff and doctors to collaborate on this community-involved project. While there may be apprehension about artificial intelligence, today we witness how this technology strengthens our community, especially in healthcare. This initiative reflects Meghalaya’s commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of our citizens.”

Shri Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department while addressing the gathering said, “Meghalaya, with its unique challenges, is leveraging technology to address geographical barriers. Our approach involves mobilizing both supply and demand side interventions, working on a lifecycle-based strategy to extend the healthy lifespan of our residents by 10-15 years. In the last three years, we have seen a significant 40% reduction in MMR. The Chief Minister envisions elevating our state to the top ten states in the next 5-10 years. This project is a testament to our commitment to overcoming challenges and improving healthcare accessibility for our people.”

Public Health Expert and Scientist Shri Nachiket Mor highlighted the critical role of healthcare in reaching the last mile and transforming the potential of the state. This initiative reflects the government’s continuous efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and meet the evolving needs of the community. It is a testament to the ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure and improve health outcomes in Meghalaya.