Health service expansion boosts institutional deliveries in Katgi PHC and Saloni

Annual deliveries in Katgi exceed target fourfold; Saloni achieves fivefold increase, all deliveries normal

Raipur 01 July 2024// Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and the guidance of Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, health facilities are being significantly expanded across the state, resulting in a notable increase in institutional deliveries.

Primary Health Center Katgi in the Kasdol development block and Ayushman Arogya Mandir Saloni in the Palari development block have emerged as leaders in institutional deliveries in Balodabazar district. From April 2023 to March 2024, Katgi conducted 488 deliveries, exceeding the annual target of 120, while Saloni recorded 178 deliveries against a target of 36. Notably, all deliveries were normal.

Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. MP Mahiswar stated “Promoting institutional deliveries is the top priority of the government aimed at reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. Through various government schemes, comprehensive services ranging from conception to post-delivery are provided to women. This includes arrangements for transport to ensure a safe return home after delivery, along with Rs. 1400 financial assistance provided under the ‘Janani Suraksha Yojana’ in rural areas. Essential medicines and tests are also provided free of cost.”

Maternal Health Nodal Officer Dr. Shashi Jaiswal explained the protective benefits of institutional delivery against infection risks and the health benefits for both mother and child under skilled supervision.

Kasdol Block Medical Officer Dr. Ravishankar Ajgalle noted the extensive reach of Katgi Primary Health Center, attracting patients from villages within a 15-20 kilometer radius and even from border districts like Bilaspur and Janjgir. He highlighted that Katgi has been awarded the National Quality Assurance Standard Certificate.

Palari BMO Dr. B S Dhruv mentioned that Saloni serves 5 villages and draws patients from nearby areas including Dharashiv, Kailashgarh and Amethi for deliveries.

Vishal Paikara of Kalmidih, whose wife delivered at Katgi Hospital, expressed satisfaction with the facilities provided.

National Health Mission District Program Manager Srishti Mishra pointed out various government programs, including Janani Suraksha Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan, for pregnant and lactating mothers, urging them to avail themselves of the benefits of these schemes.

Meanwhile, several Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in the district, including Karhibazar, Kadar, Tarashiv, Kumhari, Damru, Khapri (S), Dhaneli, and Sudhela, have also conducted more than a hundred deliveries each.

The healthcare personnel dedicated to these facilities, including Rural Medical Assistant Ravi Sen, nursing staff Sushma Dubey, Annapurna Sahu, Kevra Sinha, Pramila Sahu, and Hemlata Dewangan at Katgi, and CHO Priyanka Verma, RHO Nirmala Sahu, and Manmohan Aryan at Saloni, continue to provide commendable services in ensuring safe institutional deliveries.