Bhubaneswar: The Odisha cabinet has approved a proposal for continuance of free diagnostic and dialysis programme (NIDAAN) and strengthening of ancillary services at public health facilities (Nirmal) schemes for five more years.
The state government will spend Rs 2,459.51 crore for NIDAAN, designed to augment free diagnostic and dialysis services at public health facilities, in the next five years. Patients will have access to 16 types of tests at sub-centres, 65 at primary health centres (PHCs), 103 at community health centres (CHCs), 121 at sub-divisional hospitals (SDHs), 146 at district headquarters hospitals (DHHs), and 221 at medical colleges and hospitals (MCHs) in the state.
Besides, MRI and CT Scan services will also be made available at select DHHs and MCHs free of cost.
The budget for Nirmal scheme is Rs 5,174. It includes linen and laundry services, security services, and attendant services aimed at providing a better ambience for patients and their attendants at public health facilities, while minimising hospital-acquired infections and preparing them to receive good certificates on cleanliness.