Shillong: In a move aimed at bolstering healthcare services in rural Meghalaya, a new Urban Health & Wellness Centre (UHWC) was inaugurated at Upper Damalgre under the Rerapara C&RD Block.
The facility, which marks the sixth such centre in the district, is expected to serve approximately 3,000 residents across six villages.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Subir Marak, MLA of Rangsakona Constituency and Chairman of the Khadi and Village Industry Commission.
Funded under the 15th Finance Commission, this centre follows six others inaugurated last year, underscoring the state’s commitment to expanding healthcare access in remote areas.
The centre is staffed with a Medical & Health Officer, Staff Nurse, ANM, and Grade IV personnel, providing outpatient services and basic diagnostic tests, including blood pressure monitoring and blood sugar and haemoglobin tests. Plans are also in place to conduct periodic health camps, ensuring healthcare services reach nearby villages.
Looking ahead, the government envisions transforming the UHWC into a polyclinic. Specialists such as dental surgeons, gynaecologists, and orthopaedics will offer weekly consultations to address the specific needs of the community.
During his keynote address, Chief Guest Subir Marak highlighted the availability of free diagnostics and treatment at the centre and encouraged residents to utilise the services. He also emphasized the importance of the ongoing TB elimination campaign and urged individuals with symptoms to come forward for screening. Marak further addressed mental health and substance abuse concerns, urging families to seek counselling and support offered by the centre.
Additional Deputy Commissioner TK Sangma lauded the new facility, calling it a significant step toward improving public health in the region. She underscored the importance of immunization and institutional deliveries to reduce maternal and child mortality rates and encouraged health workers to remain dedicated to their responsibilities.
Local leaders, including the District Medical & Health Officer and the Nokma, expressed optimism about the centre’s impact on the community. They believe the facility will significantly enhance healthcare access, leading to better health outcomes for the residents of Upper Damalgre and its adjoining areas.
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