The Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) in Naharlagun has launched a state-of-the-art teleradiology hub, along with a radiology information system (RIS) and picture archiving and communication system (PACS). The facility was inaugurated by Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge on Monday. The teleradiology hub is expected to revolutionize digital healthcare in the state, particularly in remote and far-flung areas where access to specialized care is limited.
The minister emphasized that this initiative, under the National Health Mission (NHM), will enable patients in these areas to receive timely and accurate diagnoses without having to travel to the state capital. The new system allows X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic images to be securely transmitted online to expert radiologists at the TRIHMS hub for faster reporting. This digital transformation eliminates the need for physical films and paperwork, significantly speeding up diagnosis and treatment.
In addition to the teleradiology hub, the minister also launched a new set of colour-coded bed sheets and pillow covers for patient beds at the TRIHMS, which will be scaled up across all state hospitals based on feedback. However, the minister expressed concern over the severe shortage of specialized medical professionals in the state, citing a recent recruitment drive for radiologist posts that drew zero applications. He urged parents and the public to encourage their children to pursue medical courses to address this issue.
The launch event was attended by top health officials, including the directors of health services, family welfare, medical education, TRIHMS, and the NHM mission director.
