Pune: PMC ranks second in Maharashtra state health service index
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Pune Municipal Corporation’s health department has secured second rank in Maharashtra’s Health Service Index (HSI). Dheeraj Kumar, the state health commissioner and mission director of the National Health Mission, during a state-level review meeting held in Pune, presented the award. Dr. Bhagwan Pawar, PMC health officer acknowledged the achievement with pride.
The Kolhapur Municipal Corporation emerged as the top performer in the state HSI rankings, followed by PMC’s health department in second place and Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad City Municipal Corporation in third place.
It is worthy to note that the Health Services Index (HSI) is a state government indicator used to evaluate healthcare effectiveness. It assesses factors like family planning, immunization, pregnancies, epidemic management, and national initiatives like the fight against non-communicable illnesses. The index also evaluates the implementation of programs like Janani Suraksha Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Matrutva Vandana Yojana.
During the HSI review last year, the PMC’s health department struggled to rank among the state’s top 15 districts. However, under the leadership of Additional Commissioner Ravindra Binwade and PMC Chief Rajendra Bhosale, the department made significant improvements, rising from third to top for four months.
The HSI assessment is a crucial tool for monitoring and improving healthcare services in Maharashtra, conducted monthly and annually. It enhances accountability and transparency in healthcare governance, aiding in informed decision-making. Stakeholders anticipate future progress in healthcare delivery, with PMC’s health department setting a standard for excellence and serving as an example for the state.
Dr Pawar, the chairman of the PMC health department, announced that health officers are holding quarterly and monthly meetings to maintain the department’s top ranking and reach more citizens. Field offices with high health index scores are encouraged, while health facilities and ward offices with less work are given more attention.
