Astore DHQ (District Headquarters) Hospital is the primary public healthcare facility serving the Astore district in Gilgit-Baltistan. Strategically located in the heart of Astore Valley, the hospital functions as the cornerstone of healthcare delivery for thousands of residents and visitors in this mountainous region.
Overview
The hospital is a government-run institution under the Health Department of Gilgit-Baltistan. It offers a full spectrum of healthcare services including emergency care, outpatient treatment, inpatient services, maternal care, and diagnostics. Its mission is to ensure accessible, affordable, and efficient healthcare for the underserved population of Astore and its surrounding valleys.
Departments and Services
Astore DHQ Hospital is equipped with key departments to meet the primary and secondary healthcare needs of the region:
- Emergency Services: 24/7 emergency response and trauma care
- General Medicine: Diagnosis and treatment of chronic and acute diseases
- Surgery: Minor and general surgical procedures
- Gynecology & Obstetrics: Antenatal care, deliveries, and postnatal services
- Pediatrics: Child health services and immunization programs
- Orthopedic Care: Fracture management and joint-related treatments
- Laboratory and Imaging: Basic lab tests, X-rays, and ultrasound services
- Pharmacy: Provision of essential medicines within the hospital premises
Facilities
Despite the geographical challenges of Astore, the DHQ Hospital provides essential medical infrastructure:
- Inpatient wards for medical and surgical cases
- Maternity unit with labor and delivery rooms
- Basic ICU and post-operative care beds
- Well-equipped emergency department
- Ambulance services for patient transport
- Clean water, sanitation, and backup power systems
Medical Staff
The hospital employs a dedicated team of healthcare professionals including medical officers, surgeons, gynecologists, pediatricians, nurses, and lab technicians. In critical areas, visiting consultants from nearby cities provide specialist care.
Community Health Role
Astore DHQ Hospital is actively involved in community outreach and preventive health campaigns such as polio immunization, tuberculosis control, maternal health awareness, and hygiene education in schools and villages.
Accessibility
The hospital is accessible via the main Astore road and caters not only to Astore residents but also to patients from nearby villages like Eidgah, Rattu, and Chilum. Due to limited private healthcare facilities in the area, DHQ Hospital serves as a critical referral center.
Operational Hours
Outpatient clinics run from morning till late afternoon on working days. The emergency department remains open round the clock including weekends and public holidays.
Conclusion
Astore DHQ Hospital plays a vital role in delivering healthcare in a remote and mountainous district. With its diverse departments, committed staff, and government support, the hospital is a lifeline for communities in Astore Valley, ensuring that quality care is within reach even in the farthest corners of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the emergency department open 24/7?
Yes, the emergency department at Astore DHQ Hospital operates 24 hours a day throughout the week.
Does the hospital have delivery and maternity services?
Yes, the hospital has a dedicated maternity unit for antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care.
Are surgeries performed in the hospital?
Yes, the hospital handles routine and minor surgeries. For complex cases, referrals are made to higher-level hospitals.
Is ambulance service available?
Yes, ambulance services are available for emergency and referral transport.
Can children receive vaccinations here?
Yes, the hospital conducts regular immunization drives for children under government health programs.
Is there a laboratory for diagnostic tests?
Yes, the hospital has a laboratory equipped for blood tests, urine analysis, and basic diagnostic procedures.
How can I reach the hospital?
The hospital is located along the main Astore road and can be accessed by public and private transport.