Paras Hospital launches priority care initiative for senior citizens, specially-abled patients

Srinagar, Sep 25: Paras Hospital Srinagar has introduced a priority care initiative to enhance the hospital experience for senior citizens and specially abled individuals. The programme provides quicker consultations, expedited diagnostics, reduced waiting times, and direct assistance from staff, addressing key barriers in healthcare access for these groups.

India’s ageing population is expanding rapidly. According to the India Ageing Report 2023, nearly 149 million people were over 60 in 2022, a number projected to rise to 194 million by 2031.

Ageing brings increased risks of hypertension, diabetes, and mobility issues, making timely treatment critical. Accessibility remains a major challenge: a Lancet study found older Indians travel an average of 14.5 km for outpatient care and over 43 km for hospitalisation, with rural patients facing the steepest hurdles. For specially abled seniors, these challenges are even more pronounced, often causing delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

Dr Murtaza Habib, Facility Director at Paras Hospital Srinagar, said, “Senior citizens and specially abled patients often face barriers that prevent timely medical attention. This programme directly addresses those gaps by streamlining access at every step, whether registration, consultation, or diagnostics. Our aim is to make their hospital visit efficient, respectful, and stress-free.”

The initiative includes a dedicated helpdesk, special OPD days for elderly patients, counselling and wellness programmes, and structured guidance for home care support.

Paras Hospital Srinagar said it is committed to improving healthcare access for vulnerable groups, ensuring timely treatment, shorter waiting times, and dignified care, setting a benchmark for healthcare delivery.