Govt plans to set up nursing college at old Hospicio hospital

MAPUSA
Health Minister Viswajit Rane informed the Goa Legislative Assembly of plans to establish a nursing college at the old premises of Hospicio Hospital in Margao.

However, he did not provide a specific timeline for the project's completion.

Rane also clarified that patients from the South Goa District Hospital are referred to the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) for tertiary care.

In response to queries from Velim MLA Cruz Silva regarding the seriousness of the government's commitment to opening the new nursing college, Rane explained, “We have received administrative approval to set up a nursing college in the old premises of Hospicio Hospital, Margao. We want to establish the college but cannot rush the process.”

Rane assured the assembly of a joint inspection of the South Goa District Hospital with Opposition MLAs during the ongoing session.

Discussing the challenges in reconstructing the old Hospicio structure, Rane mentioned the government's intention to retain the front portion of the heritage building while addressing its dilapidated condition.

Criticism arose from Congress MLA Altone D’Costa, who highlighted the inefficiency of the South Goa District Hospital, noting that most cases were referred to GMC.

“If crucial facilities are not available and every second patient is referred to the GMC, then what is the point of having such a big hospital in South Goa?” D’Costa questioned.

AAP MLA Venzy Viegas also expressed concern over the increasing number of referral cases from the district hospital to GMC, and also questioning the government's plan to reduce referrals to private hospitals.

Addressing these concerns, Rane admitted that without proper specialty facilities in place at the district hospital, referrals would continue.

“Referrals happen due to the requirement of tertiary care,” he stated.

Rane informed the House that since May 30, a nine-bedded ICU has been fully operational at the district hospital, complete with necessary infrastructure, equipment, drugs, and manpower.

He mentioned the initial proposal to set up a Cath Lab on the rooftop of the district hospital, which was ruled out after the GSIDC inspection determined the area would require an RC roof.

Rane assured the House that plans to establish a neurosurgery unit at the South Goa District Hospital were being worked out.

Additionally, he confirmed that no proposals had been received to set up an AIIMS or a branch of AIIMS at the district hospital in Margao.