National experts discuss strategies for strengthening patient safety at SKIMS conference
Srinagar, Oct 18: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday inaugurated the National Conference on Patient Safety at SKICC, organised by the Department of Hospital Administration, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) and called for tangible reforms in the healthcare delivery system.
The theme of the conference was “Every Error a Lesson, Every Lesson a Safer Care.” The event brought together prominent policymakers, healthcare administrators, and medical experts from across the country to deliberate on strategies to strengthen patient safety frameworks in hospitals and healthcare institutions.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Minister for Health & Education Sakina Itoo, Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Secretary Health & Medical Education Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Founder Director SKIMS Dr A.K. Nagpal, and others.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Minister, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), underscored the crucial link between patient safety, efficient hospital management, and overall patient satisfaction.
He said that healthcare institutions must not let conferences remain mere academic exercises but should derive “actionable outcomes” that can be implemented across hospitals in the Union Territory.
“Patient safety and patient care are directly linked to efficient patient management. I urge SKIMS to frame concrete recommendations through this conference that can serve as a model for other hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Health & Medical Education Sakina Itoo emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to upgrading healthcare facilities in the region. She highlighted a series of recent initiatives at SKIMS, including the installation of advanced diagnostic and treatment equipment such as a CT Scan, LINAC machine, 20 anaesthesia workstations, and five mobile X-ray units.
“SKIMS is a visionary creation of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, whose contributions to the healthcare sector are timeless. The government is committed to further strengthening this premier institution to ensure quality care for all,” she said.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani praised SKIMS for maintaining its reputation as one of the leading medical institutions in the country. He said the institute’s highly skilled human resources have brought national and international recognition to Jammu and Kashmir’s healthcare system.
“The dedication and expertise of SKIMS professionals have positioned this institution among the best in the country. It continues to be a benchmark in healthcare and medical education,” he remarked.
Secretary, Health & Medical Education, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, highlighted the critical role of communication skills in preventing medical errors. He urged doctors and healthcare workers to prioritise patient communication as a cornerstone of safety.
“Most medical errors are preventable through effective communication. Conferences like these should focus on translating discussions into measurable, on-ground improvements,” he said.
Founder Director SKIMS, Prof A.K. Nagpal, expressed gratitude to the SKIMS administration for organising the conference and reiterated the importance of academic engagement in improving healthcare delivery.
“Academic conferences such as this are essential for nurturing a culture of continuous learning and improving patient safety standards,” he said.
Director SKIMS and EOSG, Prof M. Ashraf Ganie, welcomed all dignitaries and spoke about the institute’s sustained efforts to enhance patient care, research, and education. He highlighted the optimal use of budgetary allocations and the strengthening of institutional infrastructure under his leadership.
Organising Chairman, Prof G.H. Yatoo, Head of the Department of Hospital Administration, said the conference aims to foster dialogue on improving hospital safety protocols and patient-centred care practices. Organising Secretary, Dr Shahnawaz Hamid, delivered the vote of thanks, extending gratitude to the Chief Minister, dignitaries, and participants for their valuable contributions.
Following the inauguration, scientific sessions were held where national experts deliberated on multiple dimensions of patient safety, including hospital infrastructure, communication systems, and risk management in clinical settings. The deliberations will continue on October 19, focusing on strengthening patient safety mechanisms and promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement across healthcare institutions in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNO)
