Stresses High-Tech Remote Monitoring, Telemedicine Support and Advises Screening Prior Pilgrimage
Srinagar, June 20: Director SKIMS/ EOSG Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting with faculty members and administrative heads of various departments to assess the preparedness of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.
During the meeting, Director SKIMS emphasized the need for seamless inter-departmental coordination to ensure prompt, efficient and patient-centric healthcare services for pilgrims requiring medical attention during the Yatra. He directed all concerned departments to maintain readiness of critical care facilities, emergency services, essential medicines, logistics and manpower to effectively respond to any medical exigency.
Highlighting the importance of leveraging technology in healthcare delivery, Prof. Ashraf stressed the availability and operationalization of an advanced Remote Patient Monitoring System to facilitate real-time monitoring of critically ill patients. He noted that such technology-driven interventions can significantly improve clinical outcomes and help minimize mortality and morbidity among patients requiring specialized care.
The Director further underscored the importance of systematic data collection and scientific documentation during the Yatra. He stated that the data generated would contribute towards evidence-based policy making and improved healthcare planning in coordination with the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and other stakeholders.
Referring to research conducted by SKIMS and published in the Indian Heart Journal and other reputed national journals, Prof. Ganie reiterated the importance of comprehensive medical screening of pilgrims prior to undertaking the Yatra. He emphasized that proper pre-Yatra health assessment remains one of the most effective measures for preventing medical emergencies and ensuring a safe pilgrimage experience.
The meeting was informed that the designated Nodal Officer for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra at SKIMS, in coordination with the Medical Superintendent, shall ensure the availability of all required logistics, medicines, emergency services and support infrastructure as per established protocols.
Comprehensive arrangements including dedicated security support, transport facilities, implementation of duty rosters, helipad readiness, critical care management and emergency response mechanisms have been put in place. These services will be coordinated through a dedicated Command Centre established at the Casualty Department, which will function as the central coordination hub during the Yatra period.
To strengthen specialist medical support, SKIMS will operationalize a 24×7 Telemedicine Consultation Facility, enabling senior consultants from various specialties to provide real-time expert guidance and coordinate with Yatra Base Medical Centres for prompt clinical decision-making and patient management.
Prof. Ashraf directed all designated service areas to maintain the highest standards of preparedness and responsiveness. He emphasized that the Telemedicine Centre, functioning as the nerve centre of the healthcare support system, should facilitate round-the-clock consultations and ensure seamless coordination for effective patient care throughout the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, 2026.
