Srinagar, May 6: In a significant boost to public healthcare in Kashmir, the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Medical College, Bemina, has established a model Anti-Rabies Clinic (ARC) at its JVC Hospital in SKIMS Bemina, introducing full-fledged, free-of-cost treatment for animal bite cases.
The newly inaugurated facility is equipped to provide complete management for patients exposed to animal bites, including immediate wound care, administration of anti-rabies vaccines, and life-saving rabies immunoglobulin (RIG). The move is expected to reduce the burden on existing facilities and ensure timely treatment for patients across the Valley.
An official from SKIMS Bemina said that until now, the Valley had only one dedicated Anti-Rabies Clinic, located at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar. “Patients visiting SKIMS Bemina earlier had to be referred to SMHS after initial wound dressing, as advanced anti-rabies treatment facilities were not available here. This often caused inconvenience and delays,” he said.
The official added that the establishment of the ARC at SKIMS Bemina has addressed a long-standing gap in emergency care. “As per the guidelines of the National Medical Commission (NMC), every medical college is required to have a functional Anti-Rabies Clinic. We had planned to start this facility much earlier, but were unable to do so due to financial constraints. Now, we have successfully operationalised it,” he said.
The official further said that all services at the clinic, including vaccines and immunoglobulin, will be provided free of cost, ensuring accessibility for patients from all socio-economic backgrounds.
“With this facility now in place, patients no longer need to travel to SMHS for complete treatment. SKIMS Bemina is now fully equipped to handle all aspects of anti-rabies care. We welcome patients to avail these services without hesitation,” he added.
The initiative is being seen as a crucial step in strengthening emergency response to animal bite cases and preventing rabies-related fatalities, particularly in rural and underserved areas of Kashmir where access to specialised care has often been limited. (KNO)
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