Ghizer DHQ Hospital is the primary public healthcare institution located in the scenic and remote district of Ghizer, Gilgit-Baltistan. Functioning under the Department of Health Gilgit-Baltistan, this hospital is the backbone of medical services in the region, offering critical care to a population spread across valleys, mountains, and rural settlements.
Hospital Overview
Established to serve as the central healthcare hub for the district, Ghizer District Headquarters Hospital is equipped with essential diagnostic tools, inpatient services, and outpatient facilities. Despite geographical challenges and limited infrastructure, the hospital plays a vital role in treating emergencies, maternal health cases, communicable diseases, and chronic conditions.
Key Services Provided
- Emergency Care (24/7): Equipped with a basic emergency unit to handle trauma, accidents, and urgent medical conditions.
- Outpatient Department (OPD): Daily clinics for general checkups, follow-ups, and specialist consultations.
- Inpatient Services: Wards available for male, female, pediatric, and maternity patients.
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Full maternity care including prenatal, delivery, and postnatal services.
- Child Health: Pediatric consultations, immunization drives, and growth monitoring services.
- Diagnostic Laboratory: Blood tests, urine tests, malaria screening, hepatitis screening, and other basic diagnostics.
- Radiology: X-ray and ultrasound imaging for diagnostic support.
- Minor Surgery: Basic surgical procedures and wound dressing facilities.
- Pharmacy: In-house government pharmacy for essential medications.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The hospital building consists of several departments including OPD, IPD, operation theater, labor room, laboratory, and diagnostic areas. It is supported by backup power systems to ensure continuity of services during outages. Patient seating areas, ambulance parking, and basic sanitation infrastructure are also part of the facility.
Medical Staff and Departments
Ghizer DHQ Hospital is staffed with a range of medical professionals, including:
- General Physicians
- Medical Officers
- Gynecologists
- Pediatricians
- Lady Health Visitors (LHVs)
- Dispenser and Nursing Staff
- Radiology and Lab Technicians
The hospital often receives support from visiting specialists and government health outreach teams to meet patient load and specialty care needs.
Catchment Area
Patients from all parts of Ghizer district—including Gahkuch, Phander, Yasin, Ishkoman, Chatorkhand, and Gupis—rely on this hospital. Its location makes it a crucial referral center for smaller Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centers (RHCs) across the region.
Role in Public Health Campaigns
The hospital actively supports national and provincial health campaigns such as:
- Polio vaccination drives
- Hepatitis B and C screening
- COVID-19 response and vaccination
- Malaria and dengue control programs
- Maternal and child health awareness
Operating Hours
- OPD: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
- Emergency: 24 hours
- Maternity Services: 24 hours including weekends
Challenges and Development
Though vital to the community, Ghizer DHQ Hospital faces challenges such as harsh weather conditions, staff shortages, and limited access to advanced equipment. However, continued government efforts, donor programs, and community health projects are steadily improving healthcare delivery in this remote district.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Ghizer DHQ Hospital operational 24/7?
Yes, the emergency and maternity departments are operational around the clock.
2. Are specialist doctors available?
General physicians, gynecologists, and pediatricians are available. Specialist visits from Gilgit are occasionally arranged.
3. Can pregnant women safely deliver at this hospital?
Yes, the hospital has a functioning labor room, delivery services, and postnatal care provided by trained staff.
4. What types of tests can be done at the hospital?
The hospital provides blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound scans, and routine diagnostics.
5. Do they provide ambulance services?
Yes, ambulances are available for emergencies and patient transportation from remote areas.
6. Does the hospital support immunization programs?
Yes, it regularly hosts vaccination drives for polio, hepatitis, measles, and other diseases.
Conclusion
Ghizer DHQ Hospital stands as a cornerstone of health support in one of Pakistan’s most geographically unique and underserved regions. With ongoing infrastructure improvements and consistent staff efforts, the hospital continues to play a lifesaving role for the people of Ghizer and surrounding valleys.