Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya compared healthcare systems between developed countries and India, noting that while developed nations often have longer treatment waiting times, Gujarat’s public health system provides quicker access to care. He made these remarks during the ‘International Nurses Day’ celebrations at GMERS Medical College and Civil Hospital in Gandhinagar, honoring Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing.
Pansheriya emphasized that nursing goes beyond technical skills, encompassing conduct and patient communication. He stressed that service, dedication, and excellent conduct define the nursing profession, highlighting the importance of emotional support alongside medical treatment for patients. Contrasting international systems, he mentioned delays faced by patients in countries like Canada and the United States due to structured waiting lists.
The minister praised Gujarat’s emergency response setup, citing the efficiency of services like 108 ambulances and government hospitals in ensuring timely interventions for critical cases. He commended the role of Gujarat’s nursing staff during the Covid-19 pandemic, likening them to Florence Nightingales for their life-saving efforts amidst global healthcare challenges. Pansheriya underscored the ethical aspect of healthcare, describing nursing as a selfless duty where service is rendered without expecting anything in return.
Discussing the rising mental health issues associated with modern lifestyles, Pansheriya emphasized the need for emotional stability and human sensitivity in caregiving for conditions like stress and depression. The event also saw the felicitation of nursing students excelling in sports competitions during Nursing Week, cultural performances by students, and a collective pledge to serve humanity.
