By TC News Desk
Agartala, 5th December 2024: Agartala’s premier healthcare institution, Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital (GB Pant), is taking significant strides in enhancing its medical services. For the first time, the hospital is planning to establish a separate Spine Unit, marking a milestone in the region’s healthcare sector. This announcement came during a press conference addressed by key medical professionals from the hospital.
Dr. Shankar Chakraborty, the Medical Superintendent, highlighted recent developments, including an increase in ICU capacity. The hospital, which previously had 11 ICU beds, has added 12 more and plans to incorporate 16 additional beds by December 2024. “With these upgrades, we aim to resolve all ICU bed-related issues and enhance patient care significantly,” Dr. Chakraborty stated.
In a step towards establishing the Spine Unit, the hospital has welcomed a new Spine Surgeon. Dr. Chakraborty confirmed that preparations are underway to inaugurate the unit, which will cater to spine-related medical needs, a crucial service previously lacking in the region.
Dr. Abir Lal Nath, Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology, elaborated on the hospital’s expanded neurological services. Since 2023, the Neuroscience OPD has offered diagnostic tests like the Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) test, alongside EMG, RNST, VEP tests, and brain angiography, all provided free of cost. Over 500 patients have benefited from these diagnostic services, and over 400 neurological cases have been treated at the facility.
Additionally, the hospital has introduced separate male and female wards with a combined capacity of 20 beds. “Our focus is to provide comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical care at a fraction of the cost compared to other states,” said Dr. Nath.
Dr. Siddha Reddy, Consultant Neurosurgeon, shared insights into the hospital’s achievements in neurosurgery. Since 2019, the team has successfully performed 1,700 brain and spine surgeries. To further reduce the need for referrals outside the state, the hospital is acquiring advanced medical equipment and expanding its operational facilities with an additional operation theater (OT).
“Under the Chief Minister’s directive, we are striving to minimize referral cases by strengthening our in-house capabilities. I encourage people to consult with us for their neurological and neurosurgical needs,” Dr. Reddy urged.
