Telemedicine Studio inaugurated at SMVD Narayana Superspeciality Hospital

Katra, Sep 09: In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services for devotees and the local community, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Anshul Garg Monday inaugurated a state-of-the-art ‘Telemedicine Studio’ at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital (SMVDNSH), Kakryal.

The Telemedicine Studio is a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between SMVDSB, Hewlett Packard Enterprise India Private Limited (HPEIPL) and Hewlett Packard (India) Software Operation Private Limited (HPISO) on April 6 this year as per the directions of J&K Lieutenant Governor and Chairman, SMVDSB, Manoj Sinha. The MoU aimed to install nine cloud-enabled state-of-the-art Health ATMs along the revered Vaishno Devi pilgrimage track and one ‘Telemedicine Studio’ at Katra.

According to the official spokesperson, the newly established Telemedicine Studio at SMVDNSH is designed to facilitate real-time consultation with doctors on the Vaishno Devi track and medical experts in SMVDNSH. This innovative initiative provides instant access to specialized medical advice, contributes to improved response to medical emergencies and enhances patient care on the track.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Board provides free accident insurance cover to pilgrims, visiting the holy shrine, up to Rs 5 lakh, besides free treatment to ailing devotees at SMVDNSH.

“The Chief Executive Officer highlighted the importance of telemedicine in today's healthcare landscape and its utility on the track. He stated that with the growing demand for updated medical responses towards patients, particularly devotees on the track, the ‘Telemedicine Studio’ will provide a vital link between patients and specialists, ensuring timely consultations and reducing the need for referrals,” the Spokesperson said.

CEO also expressed optimism about the project, stating that the ‘Telemedicine Studio’ will significantly improve healthcare delivery on the track besides, allow patients to receive expert medical opinions and follow-ups from specialists located at SMVDNSH.

“The launch of the ‘Telemedicine Studio’ reflects the Shrine Board's dedication to integrating modern technology with traditional healthcare practices, ensuring quality medical services are available to all. The Board is committed to providing a safe, convenient, and spiritual experience for millions of pilgrims visiting the shrine every year,” the Spokesperson said.

Among those present on the occasion were Satish Kumar Sharma, Joint CEO, SMVDSB; Som Satsangi, Senior Vice President and MD, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, India; Deputy Administrative Officer, SMVDIME; Facility Director, SMVDNSH and officers from SMVDSB and HPE.