Shillong, Feb 6: Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma today launched the health shuttle service of P.A. Sangma International Medical College & Hospital (PIMC) in presence of Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh and USTM Chancellor M Hoque.
The shuttle service aims to provide pre-hospital transportation for patients and their attendants, ensuring better access to medical facilities, for both rural and urban areas.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister lauded PIMC for the initiative. “This is a unique and much-needed intervention by PIMC. Despite the challenges of setting up a medical college, the institution has taken proactive steps to improve healthcare accessibility. The Health Shuttle service will not only benefit rural communities but also strengthen the healthcare network in Shillong and beyond”, he said.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, highlighted the role of such initiatives in bridging gaps in healthcare infrastructure. “Transport remains a critical barrier in accessing timely medical care. The introduction of these shuttle services will provide a structured approach to patient mobility, especially for those from underserved regions,” she said.
The Health Shuttle service began with ten vehicles, five buses dedicated to rural areas and five vans for serving urban regions, including Shillong. Initially, two urban shuttles will operate within Shillong, with provisions for expansion based on demand. To further streamline operations, PIMC plans to introduce a mobile App, enabling patients to book transport as needed.
With this initiative, PIMC aims to strengthen its role as a community-focused medical institution, ensuring that healthcare remains accessible and inclusive for all.
The launch event, held at the Chief Minister’s residence, was attended by key stakeholders, including USTM Vice-Chancellor Prof GD Sharma, Pro Vice-Chancellor Padma Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah, PIMC Principal Prof Dr Abhinandan Das, Director of Medical Education, and healthcare professionals from both PIMC and the Government of Meghalaya.
