Private Hospitals Must Make Healthcare Affordable: Mirwaiz
Health Is a Necessity, Not a Luxury, Says Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
Srinagar, Feb 17, KNT: Kashmir Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, on Tuesday, called upon private sector hospitals operating in Kashmir Valley to ensure that medical treatment remains affordable and accessible to the common people.
Speaking to reporters at Amandeep BR Medcity after interacting with doctors and patients, Mirwaiz said that health is not a luxury but a basic necessity, and private healthcare institutions must align their services with the needs of the economically weaker sections of society.
He stressed that while the expansion of modern and upgraded hospitals is the need of the hour, affordability must remain central to healthcare delivery. “Healthcare is extremely important for every segment of society. Private hospitals can play a significant role in assisting poor and common people, but their rates should be such that their presence is genuinely felt on the ground,” he said.
Mirwaiz underlined that rising medical expenses have become a matter of concern for many families in the Valley and urged hospital administrations to adopt patient-friendly policies that balance quality care with reasonable pricing.
He also appreciated the initiative taken by Ujala Cygnus Hospital for introducing health cards for Imams, describing it as a positive and thoughtful step. He expressed hope that the coverage under such schemes would be extended to include the families of clerics as well, thereby providing broader social support.
During his visit, Mirwaiz interacted with healthcare professionals and patients, and discussed issues related to medical facilities and patient care standards. [KNT]
