Agartala, August 24: Health Secretary Kiran Gitte on Sunday announced a significant drop in out-of-state medical referrals, attributing the decline to the state government’s focused efforts to upgrade Tripura’s healthcare infrastructure.
Speaking at a press conference held at Agartala Press Club, Gitte revealed that referrals for advanced medical treatment outside Tripura have decreased by nearly two-thirds in recent years. “Before 2018, around 2,000 patients were referred annually. In 2022-23, the number dropped to 778, followed by 722 in 2023-24, and 690 in the last financial year,” he said.
He credited the improvement to increased public trust in government hospitals like GB Pant, IGM Hospital, and the Regional Cancer Centre, noting that 98% of patients now seek care within these institutions. “Tripura has allocated ₹2,000 crore—3% of the state GDP—for healthcare, which is above the national average,” Gitte added.
Detailing available services, Gitte said GB Pant Hospital has 1,400 beds, IGM has 600, and the Regional Cancer Centre has over 200. Each year, around two lakh patients are treated as inpatients, while outpatient departments (OPDs) see 12–15 lakh visitors. GB Pant attends to 2,000 OPD patients daily, IGM 1,400–1,500, and the Cancer Centre 600–700. The GB Hospital also has 316 ICU beds, and most super-specialty tests are available locally.
Regarding a recent AIIMS team visit, Gitte said their recommendations have been received, and an action plan is in place, including new full-fledged departments and paid special ward services for patients opting for upgraded care.
MS GB Pant Hospital Sankar Chakraborty and senior doctors also shared service updates. The health secretary urged responsible media reporting and assured steps are being taken to address rising hospital thefts through enhanced security training.
