BMC to build GIS-based patient referral system for Mumbai civic hospitals
On June 26, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced plans to develop a digital, computerized, and GIS-based patient referral system to streamline patient transfers across its healthcare network. Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Prajakta Verma-Lavangare issued the directive during an inspection of civic healthcare facilities in Mumbai, including the Chandanwadi Dispensary, Health Centre and Polyclinic in C Ward, and the Suryakant Wagle Maternity Home at Thakurdwar.
The proposed system aims to facilitate the seamless transfer of patients from local dispensaries, health centres, and polyclinics to general and super-speciality hospitals for advanced treatment. By digitally mapping the BMC's entire network of healthcare facilities, the system will enable doctors to refer patients to the most appropriate facility based on required specialities, real-time bed availability, and geographic location.
Civic officials expect the digital platform to significantly reduce referral delays, improve coordination between different healthcare tiers, and ensure patients receive timely access to advanced medical care.
The directive followed Verma-Lavangare’s inspection of several key facilities, which also included the Municipal Laboratory in G North Ward. Following the site visits, she chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the BMC Headquarters to assess the functioning of the Public Health Department and civic healthcare facilities.
During her inspection in C Ward and G North Ward, Verma-Lavangare reviewed the registration sections, pharmacies, malaria units, laboratories, treatment areas, and sanitation facilities. She also assessed the Hospital Management Information System (HMIS), disease trends, patient profiles, treatment protocols, and operational challenges.
At the Chandanwadi Health Centre, Verma-Lavangare reviewed the implementation of National Health Mission programmes, including immunisation services. At the Suryakant Wagle Maternity Home in Thakurdwar, she interacted with expectant mothers and enquired about the health of newborns.
Additionally, Verma-Lavangare directed civic officials to upgrade hospital infrastructure and strengthen primary healthcare services. She emphasized the need to improve facilities at maternity homes, enhance healthcare services for women and children, and ensure essential amenities at crematoriums.
The inspection and subsequent review meeting were attended by Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Public Health) Sharad Ughade, Director (Medical Education and Major Hospitals) Dr Shailesh Mohite, Assistant Commissioners Alka Sasane and Yogesh Desai, along with other civic officials.
