BHUBANESWAR: Chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday set January 1st, 2024 date for inauguration of the renovated SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, which the state government has planned to develop as a 'AIIMS Plus institute' with an objective to facilitate world-class healthcare facilities in Odisha.
During a review meeting on redevelopment of the oldest medical college and hospital in the state established in 1944, Naveen said his government would spend around Rs 3,500 crore to make it a 5,000-beded hospital, which will be the largest state-run healthcare facilities in the country.
“Expansion of the prestigious institution to a world-class healthcare centre will be taken up under the 5T model of governance. Besides infrastructure development, the state government has also planned to bring changes in the healthcare system. The objective is to facilitate best of the healthcare facility to the common people within the state,” said Naveen during the review.
The chief minister said the redevelopment project will be an example in offering quality healthcare services and medical education in the country.
Stating that many renowned doctors from the state are serving in different states and countries, the chief minister said better ambience will be created so that they utilize their skills to serve the people of the state in Odisha. The chief minister said he will personally monitor the progress of the redevelopment project while he also exuded confidence that SCB medical college will be placed in best three healthcare institutions in the country.
Official sources said the redevelopment projects will be taken up over 175 acres in two phases. Target has been set to develop 3,500-beded facility in the first phase while number of beds will be enhanced to 5,000 in the second phase. Modern infrastructure will also be developed for patients, doctors and other employees of the institution.
The first phase master plan also include staff quarter complex for over 1,280 persons (of different categories), three hostel buildings for around 2200 students and two standard sports stadiums. The expansion project also includes strengthening transportation facilities, establishment of restaurants, commercial centre, facilities for attendants and strengthening security system.
The state government also plans to set up an independent panel to oversee smooth functioning of the medical college and hospital and to suggest measures to improve healthcare system and research in medical education.
Naveen, on March 5, 2020 that marked completion of 20th year of his government had laid foundation stone for redevelopment of the 76-year old institution established in 1944.
The Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OB&CC), under the state works department, is the implementing agency of the redevelopment project. Land acquisition for the project is going on in full swing by the Cuttack district administration.