The project implies the usage of modern tele-linking technology to provide medical facilities and expert medical opinions of specialists in remote locations. The data related with diagnostic test reports, X-rays and other information can be transferred under the telemedicine project from the civil hospital to experts sitting at distant places. Video conferencing with experts will also be possible under the project.

This is the second phase of the expansion of the telemedicine project in Punjab. Under Phase I, three government hospitals — Government Mata Kaushalya Hospital Patiala, Sub-Divisional Hospital, Dasuya, Hoshiarpur and Sub-Divisional Hospital Ajnala, Amritsar — were connected to PGI Chandigarh with the help of V-SAT technology.

Speaking on the occasion, Chawla said that it was for the first time that the telemedicine concept has been implemented in Punjab through Broad Band VPN technology. When asked about the pending upgradation work of the Mohali Civil Hospital to a 200-bed hospital, the minister said the proposal was alive and the upgradation would be taken up soon.

The minister further added, “It is a research project and trials of video conferencing and transfer of patient data have been successful. Data can be transferred using the software called E-Sanjeevani, which has been developed by C-DAC Mohali.”

To augment the telemedicine concept in Punjab, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Department of IT (Medical Electronic and Telemedicine Division), has sanctioned a project with a total outlay of Rs 414 lakh. Under the project 23 hospitals (3 medical colleges and 20 hospitals) are covered. These hospitals will be connected to PGI and other medical colleges in Punjab that will provide consultations to the patients in district hospitals and also help the department by providing medical education to doctors from medical institutions.