CM calls for balanced healthcare strategy in J&K

Srinagar, Aug 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today called for a balanced and integrated healthcare strategy combining advanced quaternary care with stronger primary and secondary healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing the valedictory function of the Quaternary Healthcare & Research Summit: 4th J&K Medical Conference-2026 at SKICC, the Chief Minister said upgrading tertiary healthcare to the fourth tier would enhance specialised treatment, but must be accompanied by efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery at the grassroots.

The three-day summit, held from August 25 to 27, was organised by SKIMS, Soura, under the aegis of NITI Aayog, in collaboration with AIIMS New Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Awantipora. The conference focused on “Scaling Tertiary into Quaternary Healthcare: A National Strategy for Advanced Care.”

Omar Abdullah said quality healthcare was a fundamental obligation of the government and stressed that quaternary care could help decongest tertiary institutions. However, he cautioned that creating a higher tier alone would not resolve the pressure on premier hospitals unless gaps in primary and secondary healthcare were addressed.

He noted that referral institutions such as SKIMS were often burdened with routine procedures that should ideally be available at lower levels. Strengthening the foundation of the healthcare system, he said, was essential for the effective functioning of both tertiary and quaternary institutions.

The Chief Minister stressed the need to provide quality basic healthcare beyond Jammu and Srinagar, particularly in rural areas. He said a combination of strong primary and secondary services and advanced specialised care would place J&K in a stronger position to meet the healthcare needs of its people.

He also emphasised that patients should not have to travel outside J&K for advanced treatment. Recalling the vision behind establishing SKIMS, he said the government would make every possible effort, within its financial limitations, to provide the institution with the infrastructure required for its transition to quaternary care.

Omar Abdullah highlighted infrastructure as a key factor in attracting and retaining skilled professionals. He said doctors, nurses and paramedical staff from J&K were highly capable and called for creating conditions for a “reverse brain drain” by encouraging professionals working outside to return and contribute to the healthcare system.

He urged that recommendations emerging from the summit should translate into practical action rather than remain theoretical exercises.

The Chief Minister also released “Platinum Pearls in General Surgery Super Specialities” and the souvenir “SKIMS Journey of Transformation” and presented awards to winners of various competitions.

Health Minister Sakeena Masood Itoo, MLA Pampore Retd Justice Hasnain Masoodi, senior government officials, SKIMS faculty and healthcare professionals were present on the occasion.