Patna Medical College’s Rs 5,544-Crore Redevelopment: A Healthcare Milestone for Bihar
Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), one of India’s most prestigious medical institutions, is undergoing an unprecedented Rs 5,544-crore redevelopment. This ambitious project will expand PMCH’s capacity to 5,462 beds, making it the world’s second-largest hospital. Approved by the Bihar cabinet in 2018, the initiative aims to modernize infrastructure, improve healthcare accessibility, and boost medical education in the region.
Major Highlights of the Redevelopment
- Massive Capacity Expansion: PMCH will soon accommodate 5,462 patients at a time.
- New Medical College: A dedicated institution with an annual intake of 250 students.
- Faculty Housing: Residential quarters for 644 faculty members.
- Advanced Emergency Services: Introduction of a heliport for air ambulance operations.
- World-Class Facilities: Modern medical equipment, upgraded operation theatres, and expanded healthcare services.
Transforming Bihar’s Healthcare Sector
Bihar’s medical infrastructure has faced significant challenges, leading to an over-reliance on hospitals in metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The redevelopment of PMCH will change this by providing state-of-the-art healthcare within the state, reducing patient migration and easing the burden on distant hospitals.
Enhancing Medical Education and Research
The establishment of a new medical college within PMCH will substantially increase medical student intake, improving doctor-to-patient ratios and fostering a new generation of medical professionals trained in cutting-edge facilities.
Emergency and Trauma Services Revolutionized
One of the most significant upgrades is the introduction of a heliport for emergency medical evacuations. This will ensure faster transportation of critical patients, significantly improving survival rates in life-threatening situations.
Project Challenges and Expected Completion
While the project is a landmark development, challenges such as infrastructure constraints, funding allocation, and construction timelines remain. However, the Bihar government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring timely completion and world-class healthcare delivery.
The Rs 5,544-crore redevelopment of Patna Medical College and Hospital marks a new era for Bihar’s healthcare sector. With a massive increase in bed capacity, a new medical college, and advanced emergency facilities, PMCH is set to become a premier medical hub, not just in India but on a global scale.