Leh, Jan 18: With a clear focus on strengthening critical care services in Ladakh, Dr Laltinkhuma Franklin, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Union Territory of Ladakh, on Saturday chaired a UT-level conference to review the functioning of Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and Coronary Care Units (CCUs) across the region. The review was undertaken in compliance with directions issued by the Supreme Court of India regarding standardisation and regulatory oversight of critical care facilities.
The conference examined the present status of ICUs and CCUs in government health institutions, covering infrastructure readiness, availability of essential equipment, deployment of trained manpower and prevailing clinical practices. Deliberations also focused on framing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure patient safety, institutional accountability and uniform standards in critical care delivery across Ladakh.
Addressing the meeting, Dr Franklin emphasised that while national-level guidelines and model SOPs—such as those followed in Mizoram—provide a useful framework, Ladakh cannot adopt them mechanically. He stressed that SOPs must be tailored to suit the region’s distinct geographical and climatic conditions, difficult terrain, long referral routes and limited access to specialised medical professionals.
“Critical care protocols must be practical and adaptable to Ladakh’s realities. Patient safety depends not only on guidelines but also on how well they fit local conditions,” he said, calling for a balanced approach that combines national standards with regional requirements.
During the detailed discussions, doctors and consultants reviewed the referred SOPs clause by clause and suggested modifications to address operational challenges unique to Ladakh. Issues such as emergency referrals during severe winters, continuity of ICU care in remote areas, and efficient use of available specialist manpower were discussed in depth.
The meeting was attended by the Director of Health Services, Chief Medical Officer Leh, Medical Superintendent of SNM Hospital, senior doctors, consultants and other concerned officials. The Medical Superintendent Kargil and health officials from Kargil district joined the proceedings through virtual mode.
Officials said the observations and recommendations emerging from the conference will be consolidated to finalise Ladakh-specific SOPs for ICUs and CCUs, ensuring compliance with the apex court’s directions while addressing the region’s healthcare challenges.
