Jammu Kashmir Set to Launch Major Telemedicine Push in Healthcare | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is set to achieve a new milestone in healthcare with a government-proposed telemedicine initiative, building upon significant advancements already made across its medical institutions.

The project will establish a telemedicine network, enabling patients at local Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to consult directly with specialists at district hospitals, Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), and other major institutions via video or telephone.

A senior health official said that this initiative will greatly reduce the need for patients to undertake long-distance travel.

“This will be highly beneficial and ensure timely medical advice, especially during winters and in emergencies,” the official said.

According to government data, the telemedicine service will be implemented across all ten districts of the Kashmir Division. The network will link numerous PHCs, Community Health Centres (CHCs), and New Type PHCs (NTPHCs) to central district hubs.

A total of 40 telemedicine units have been allocated for the initial phase, with deployment planned across the districts of Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian, and Srinagar.

“This system will directly connect patients in remote areas with specialist doctors, fundamentally improving healthcare access and delivery,” the officer added. (KNS)