Decade-Long Diagnostic Deficit at IHBAS Sparks CM's Urgent Overhaul Mandate

In a startling revelation that has sent shockwaves through Delhi's healthcare administration, it has come to light that the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), a cornerstone for mental health and neurosciences in the region, has been operating without essential MRI and CT scan facilities for an astonishing decade.

This prolonged diagnostic deficit has compelled countless patients to endure significant hardships, forcing them to travel to other hospitals for crucial scans, leading to delays, added expenses, and immense inconvenience for those already grappling with complex health issues.

The gravity of this oversight was brought to the forefront during an unannounced inspection by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Deeply disturbed by the ground realities and the systemic neglect, CM Kejriwal did not mince words, expressing profound displeasure over the institute’s dilapidated condition and the glaring absence of vital diagnostic equipment. His visit culminated in a resolute directive for an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of IHBAS, with a stringent one-month deadline to restore full functionality and elevate patient care standards.

The Chief Minister's mandate is far-reaching, targeting multiple aspects of the institute’s operation.

Foremost among his instructions is the imperative to ensure that both the MRI and CT scan facilities are not just present, but fully operational within the stipulated month. This includes not only repairing or replacing the machinery but also putting in place the necessary technical staff to run them efficiently.

The lack of these machines has been a major bottleneck, undermining the institute's capacity to provide holistic care.

Beyond diagnostics, CM Kejriwal emphasized a mission-mode recruitment drive for essential personnel, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, to address chronic staff shortages that have plagued the institution.

The human element is crucial in healthcare, and adequate staffing is non-negotiable for delivering quality services. Furthermore, he directed a complete renovation of all wards, aiming to create a more hygienic, comfortable, and patient-friendly environment, a stark contrast to the current state of neglect observed during his visit.

Additional directives focused on improving basic amenities and operational efficiency.

Kejriwal called for an immediate upgrade in hygiene standards across the campus, better quality food for patients, and enhanced security measures to ensure a safe and secure environment for both patients and staff. He also stressed the importance of improving therapeutic support and rehabilitation services, recognizing IHBAS's critical role in long-term mental health recovery.

To ensure accountability and swift action, the Delhi Health Minister has been tasked with conducting regular monitoring meetings, guaranteeing that the overhaul progresses as planned and that the deadlines are met without fail.

The Chief Minister's intervention marks a pivotal moment for IHBAS.

For years, the institute, despite its crucial role in specialized mental health treatment, has struggled with infrastructural and operational deficiencies. This new directive, born out of direct observation and strong political will, offers a glimmer of hope that a decade of neglect will finally be rectified, paving the way for IHBAS to fulfill its potential as a leading institution for mental and neurological healthcare in the capital, providing the dignity and care that its patients rightfully deserve.