The COVID-19 Unified (Bir Hospital) has launched cath lab facilities. Minister for Health and Population, Padam Giri, inaugurated the service amidst a programme here today. The catheterization lab commonly known as the cath lab is meant for various kinds of cardiac tests and other related procedures. On the occasion, the Minister insisted that the Hospital should ensure quality services and none should be denied treatment and pushed to death in lack of budget.

He said his attention had been drawn to the reports that Hospital faces frequent technical issues on its equipment. Minister of State for Health Dr Toshima Karki said the availability of cath lab in the hospital would be convenient for cardiac patients. She urged one and all to contribute for implementing the rights to basic health care services ensured by the Constitution.

Health Ministry Secretary Dr Roshan Pokharel said the cath lab was established in the country’s oldest health facility bearing in mind its prime need here. Cath lab is required to carry out various cardiac tests and procedures such as angioplasty, ablation, angiogram, and implantation of pacemakers. National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) Vice Chancellor Dr Dev Narayan Shah said the establishment of the cath lab aims to upgrade the hospital as a specialized health facility.

According to hospital officiating chief administrative officer Dr Bhupendra Basnet, around 200 people with cardiac issues visit the facility on a daily basis and among them, four-five require cath lab care. Prior to this, the hospital would refer such patients to the Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre. The establishment of the lab costs Rs 97 million. The service will be formally available from coming Sunday.