RIMS Ranchi struggles with shortage of staff
Ranchi: The Rajendra Institute of Medical Science (RIMS), a key medical institution in Jharkhand that serves approximately 2,500 patients daily, is grappling with severe staffing issues, Dr Ram Kumar, the hospital's director, revealed on Friday. During a press conference, Dr Kumar highlighted the critical shortfall in manpower, noting that the current staff strength is far below the required levels.
Dr Ram Kumar assumed the charge as the Director of the institute four months ago. As per a recent media report by the Times of India, Dr Kumar explained that out of a sanctioned strength of 596 Group D employees, only 94 are presently employed, indicating a significant gap in essential support staff. “There are no administrative, accounts, and vigilance officers. RIMS is running its administration with the help of doctors like the medical superintendent, who is a paediatric surgeon. We need two deputy medical superintendents and an additional medical superintendent on deputation,” he added.
Dr Kumar has been in continuous dialogue with the state's health minister, Banna Gupta, and senior officials to address the crisis. She had multiple discussions with the health minister and other top bureaucrats, bringing the dire situation at RIMS to their attention. In addition to his appeals for more staff, Dr Kumar mentioned that the next meeting of the RIMS governing body is scheduled for July 9.
This will be the first meeting since March 2023, and it is set to discuss around 35 proposals aimed at addressing various issues faced by the institution, reports the Daily. These proposals will cover topics ranging from staff recruitment to the improvement of hospital infrastructure and services.
The staff shortage at RIMS is not only a burden on the existing workforce but also poses a risk to patient care quality. With only a fraction of the required personnel, the hospital struggles to manage the influx of patients, which often leads to longer wait times and potentially compromised care.
Hospital Improvements and New Initiatives
Dr Ram Kumar, Director of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), has reported that there are 148 encroachments on the hospital premises, including unauthorized temple constructions. Efforts are underway to reinforce the hospital's green corridor, ensuring a more efficient route for emergency patients.
A new subway is being planned to facilitate pedestrian movement towards Kokar, while the existing road will be reserved exclusively for RIMS use. The Jharkhand Building Corporation has conducted multiple inspections of older buildings on campus to assess and plan renovations.
The basement’s blocked drainage system, which has caused waterlogging issues, is also being addressed. Approval has been granted to establish a new outpatient department in a proposed block, with the tender process expected to begin soon.
A central lab will be constructed to streamline medical diagnostics for patients. The state administration has sanctioned the establishment of a police picket on the hospital grounds to enhance security. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to upgrade RIMS and provide better healthcare services to the community.
