GMC Baramulla restarts pacemaker implantation for heart patients in north Kashmir

Baramulla, Nov 12: In a major development for cardiac healthcare in north Kashmir, the Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla has reinstated its Permanent Pacemaker Implantation Service after remaining non-functional for nearly a year.

The crucial service had been suspended due to the absence of a qualified cardiologist, forcing patients with cardiac rhythm disorders to travel to Srinagar or other tertiary centres for treatment.

The facility has now been revived following the appointment of Dr Mustafa Bashir, an Interventional Cardiologist, after persistent efforts by Prof. (Dr.) Majid Jahangir, Principal GMC Baramulla.

“After the appointment of the interventional cardiologist, we have been able to restart this life-saving facility. It’s a major relief for cardiac patients across north Kashmir who can now access advanced care locally,” said Dr Jahangir.

The first pacemaker implantation procedures were successfully performed by Dr Bashir in coordination with the Department of Medicine, led by Dr. Nisar Ahmad Khan, with vital support from the Anaesthesia Department and Operation Theatre staff.

Importantly, the procedures were conducted free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, ensuring that patients from all economic backgrounds benefit from the service.

Medical Superintendent Dr Parvaiz Masoodi hailed the development as a milestone for the institution. “The resumption of pacemaker implantation marks a major leap in the hospital’s journey toward self-reliance in specialised cardiac services,” he said.

Dr Saadat Nazir Shah, in charge of Cardiac Pacing and Advanced Vascular Services (CPAV), said the restoration of the facility would “immensely benefit cardiac patients” and reaffirmed the college’s commitment to providing quality healthcare to every patient in north Kashmir.

With the revival of the pacemaker service, GMC Baramulla is once again positioned as a key centre for advanced cardiac intervention, offering critical support to a large population that previously had to travel long distances for such procedures.