SHILLONG, May 1: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla on Friday expressed optimism that Meghalaya will have at least 200 additional doctors within the next five years, a move expected to significantly address the current shortage of medical professionals in the state.

Speaking at the inaugural function of the 24th Scientific Conference-cum-General Body Meeting of the Meghalaya Medical Services Association (MMSA), Shylla highlighted the importance of strengthening medical education infrastructure. He stated that the establishment of Shillong Medical College marks a crucial step forward, noting that such an institution "should have been set up much earlier" to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals.
He said that efforts are underway to make Tura Medical College function during the current year.
Alongside Shillong Medical College, Shylla said the upcoming Tura Medical College and Purno Sangma International Medical College are expected to boost the state's capacity to produce trained doctors.
The Health Minister said recent data reviewed during the latest budget session indicated a significant rise in patient footfall at government hospitals, reflecting increased public trust in state-run healthcare facilities.
Highlighting government support, Shylla noted that nearly 8% of the state's total budget has been allocated to the Health Department, underscoring the priority accorded to the sector.
He acknowledged past challenges, particularly the delay in hiring medical personnel. "However, with the establishment of a recruitment board, the state has been able to streamline the appointment of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers," he said.
Emphasising administrative reforms, Shylla said the government is pushing for decentralisation to empower Medical Superintendents and officials in charge of hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Block Primary Health Centres (BPHCs). He added that the Cabinet has approved outcome-based budgeting to facilitate direct allocation of funds to healthcare institutions and reduce procedural delays.
Despite challenges, including a near-doubling of patient load in the past three years, the minister commended healthcare workers for maintaining services. He noted that even with schemes like MHIS and the presence of private hospitals, a majority of patients continue to depend on government facilities.
Addressing concerns over rural postings, Shylla said the government is constructing residential quarters for doctors in PHCs and CHCs to improve working conditions and ensure better service delivery.
On infrastructure and logistics, he said initiatives through Meghalaya Medical Drugs and Services Limited are being strengthened to ensure the timely supply of medicines, equipment maintenance, and effective biomedical waste management through dedicated technical teams.
Shylla also noted delays in promotions within the medical services and assured that the government is committed to resolving the issue. He urged doctors to submit pending documentation, including Annual Confidential Reports, to facilitate timely promotions.
Stressing the importance of continuous learning, Shylla encouraged doctors to participate in conferences and training programmes, noting that the government has earmarked funds to support such initiatives.