Paediatric Cardiology Wing either in GIMS or Sri Jayadeva Institute: HC asks State to Decide

Now, the Karnataka Government will decide on starting the paediatric cardiology wing and regarding the appointment of a paediatric cardiologist either in the Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) or the newly constructed Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research in Kalaburagi, adds The Hindu.

However, while leaving the decision in the hands of the State, the High Court bench comprising of Justices Abhay S. Oka and N.S. Sanjay Gowda in the order dated August 16 mentioned, "We are sure that while taking a decision, the State government will bear in mind that the right to health is also an integral part of the right to life guaranteed by Article 21."

The High Court was considering a petition filed by an activist from Kalaburgi and also the president of Know Your Rights Association.

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As per the latest media report by The Hindu, during the hearing of the case, the petitioner pointed out how opening up a paediatric cardiology wing would be highly beneficial for the Kalyana Karnataka region, as it would help to reduce the child mortality rate in the area.

On the other hand, the Karnataka Government pointed out that there was lack of space in the existing hospital complex and thus it would be problematic to set up an additional paediatric unit in there.

However, the State suggested that once the new 350-bed Jayadeva hospital, which is currently under construction, becomes functional, the paediatric cardiology wing could be introduced in the new complex.

Leaving the decision in the hands of the State, the HC bench asked the Government to arrive at an appropriate decision within one month from the date of order and notify the Court about the same before the next date of hearing.