AIIMS New Delhi Takes Steps to Improve Emergency Medical Services

Dr. M. Srinivas, director of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has initiated measures to improve the efficiency of emergency medical and surgical services. 

The decision primarily tackles the challenges posed by many patients seeking emergency care. The initiative aims to ensure timely and quality medical attention for those in need by expediting the admission or discharge of emergency patients based on their medical requirements. 

This effort involves comprehensive coordination among clinical departments as has been underlined by Dr. M. Srinivas.

As part of this strategic initiative, Dr. Rakesh Yadav, professor of Cardiology, has been appointed as the professor in charge of Emergency Services. 

In this role, Dr. Yadav will oversee and coordinate emergency services at AIIMS New Delhi, working closely with all stakeholders to minimise waiting times for patients within the Main Emergency department. 

Additionally, as the PIC (Emergency Services), Dr. Yadav will collaborate with other hospitals in Delhi to establish a comprehensive referral network for patients who require stabilisation before being referred from the emergency department.

AIIMS New Delhi's Main Emergency department is vital in caring for over 400 patients daily, nearly one patient every three minutes. 

However, the daily discharge rate from inpatient wards averages around 250 patients, causing an imbalance between patient inflow and outflow.

Furthermore, some patients receive planned admissions through the Outpatient Department (OPD), with appointments scheduled years in advance. 

This continuous flow of patients often leads to a shortage of beds within the emergency department, resulting in extended waiting times or referrals to nearby hospitals.

In a significant move towards improving healthcare services and enhancing patient convenience, AIIMS New Delhi has recently implemented a centralised system for sample collection and electronic report distribution. 

Under this new mandate, all patient samples are collected within their respective Outpatient Departments (OPDs), streamlining the process for efficient and convenient access to diagnostic services.

Moreover, in a noteworthy development from August, AIIMS New Delhi has collaborated with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) to introduce a Patient Grievance Redressal System. This collaborative effort addresses patient feedback and concerns, improving patient care.