AP Elevates Two CHCs to Tribal Hospitals Boost to Healthcare for Tribal Communities

Tirupati: In a move aimed at bolstering healthcare services for tribal communities, the AP government has recently redesignated government-run Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Cumbham and Giddalur of Prakasam district to Tribal Hospitals.

This was done with approval from the state health ministry. Eight months ago, the government had redesignated the CHCs in Yerragondapalem, Markapur and Pedda Dornala into tribal hospitals.

The redesignation meant an “upgrade,” officials claimed, adding that there would be allocation of additional medical personnel, state-of-the-art medical equipment and improved infrastructure.

These enhancements are aimed at providing better healthcare services to the tribal communities in the respective regions. “Efforts to enhance the infrastructure of Cumbham CHC are under way. It would be made a 50-bed facility.

Infrastructure improvements are also proposed for these hospitals through the 'Nadu-Nedu' programme. A fund of Rs 3 crore was allocated for this purpose. This initiative aims to create additional wards, rooms and operating theatres,” stated Dr. Siva Nayak, superintendent, Cumbham Hospital.

The Giddalur CHC is also slated to receive additional funding in the near future, further boosting its healthcare capabilities. “The state government's decision to upgrade these CHCs to tribal hospitals underscores its dedication to healthcare equity,'' claimed Giddalur MLA Anna Rambabu.

"This is a historic moment. The elevation of these health centres to tribal hospitals will not only improve healthcare accessibility but also contribute significantly to the holistic development of tribal communities," he added.