In a heartening development, the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s imposition of costs and penalties on defaulting parties is proving to be a boon for vulnerable patients at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER). Over the last two years, contributions to the Poor Patient Welfare Fund (PPWF) have surged by 179%, from Rs 89.50 lakh in 2023-24 to Rs 2.49 crore in 2024-25. This fiscal year alone has seen Rs 2.06 crore deposited in just 10 months, showcasing the significant impact of judicial support.
PGIMER Director Prof Vivek Lal lauded the High Court’s compassionate approach, emphasizing the transformative effect of directing costs towards life-saving aid for the underprivileged. He expressed gratitude for the judiciary’s socially meaningful stance, turning judicial orders into tangible treatment, relief, and hope for distressed families. Prof Lal highlighted the court’s consistent support, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, where judicial interventions played a crucial role in bolstering patient care systems.
The surge in contributions has notably bolstered PGIMER’s ability to respond promptly to critical cases in various specialties like oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery, nephrology, and trauma care. This financial assistance often proves to be the decisive factor between deterioration and recovery for many patients. The Poor Patient Welfare Fund acts as a vital support system for families facing medical and financial crises, ensuring access to essential medical services, diagnostics, surgical needs, and emergency care, irrespective of their financial constraints. Administered transparently, the fund ensures timely and responsible assistance to deserving beneficiaries.
