Combating COVID-19: Bhubaneswar AIIMS Sets Up 206-Bed Isolation Facility

Bhubaneswar: The All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar has set up an isolation facility with 206 beds and 20 ventilators on standby to treat patients infected with COVID-19.

Besides, the hospital’s AYUSH complex has also been provided with 20 isolation beds and 10 ventilators.

The 36 private cabins and the entire J Block with 150 beds has been kept ready for treating the patients.

According to reports, after getting a nod from the central government, the hospital has even started conducting COVID tests for free.

AIIMS Director Dr Gitanjali Batmanabane said, “We have ordered 40 more ventilators that are expected to reach us by the end of next month. We have sufficient medical consumables and testing kits to deal with the crisis. Standard operating guidelines has also been prepared for doctors and employees, who will be coming in contact with patients.

“A COVID screening OPD has been opened where suspects are advised to take necessary steps. After screening, a decision on tests are being taken as per protocol. We have decided to start telemedicine services in next couple of days for patients who can consult doctors through the digital platform. This would prevent patients from travelling from far off places,” she added.

The second COVID patient admitted to the AIIMS isolation ward is recovering fast. The patient’s close contacts are also doing fine and have not developed any symptoms yet, stated the AIIMS Director.

The hospital has suspended the regular OPD service so that the doctors can attend the seriously ill patients.