In a major move to strengthen the state’s healthcare infrastructure, the Jharkhand government has announced the establishment of a Central Radiology Hub at Sadar Hospital, Ranchi. This hub aims to ensure uniform and uninterrupted access to radiology services such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs across all government health facilities in the state.
According to Ajay Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare, all government hospitals in Jharkhand will be digitally connected to this central hub. The primary objective is to provide immediate, accurate, and digitally accessible radiological reporting to patients, especially those living in remote and resource-scarce regions.
Radiologists stationed at the hub will review and evaluate X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs and send back detailed image reports to the respective health institutions and patients.
24×7 Tele-Radiology Reporting Centre
The hub will function as a 24×7 tele-radiology reporting centre, significantly enhancing diagnosis timelines. The project will be rolled out in two phases, with the first phase connecting all district (Sadar) hospitals to the hub. This will address the critical shortage of radiologists in several districts and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for patients.
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The estimated cost of the project is ₹1,21,27,100, which has already received approval. In addition, radiology technicians will receive advanced training to efficiently operate X-ray, MRI, and CT scan equipment.
Ajay Kumar outlined the core objectives of the initiative:
- Reducing turnaround time for diagnostic reports,
- Promoting AI-based imaging technologies in healthcare,
- Minimizing the urban-rural divide in diagnostic services,
- Strengthening the core healthcare infrastructure of the state.
Enhanced Diagnostic Capacity Across CHCs, SDHs, and Referral Hospitals
Linking Community Health Centres (CHCs), Sub-Divisional Hospitals (SDHs), and referral hospitals to the Central Radiology Hub will improve diagnostic capabilities in rural and semi-urban areas. The initiative will also help mitigate the shortage of radiologists in Jharkhand, ensuring timely availability of digital reports, which is crucial for the early detection and treatment of critical illnesses.
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This initiative will streamline the medical reporting system and represents a technological leap forward in the state’s healthcare services. By integrating digital tools and centralized diagnosis, Jharkhand moves closer to delivering equitable, efficient, and timely medical care to every corner of the state.
