Chhapra, April 25: There’s good news for residents of Chhapra district on the healthcare front. The intensive care unit (ICU) of Chhapra Sadar Hospital will start functioning in a month’s time.

Earlier, any serious patient brought here were referred to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), as the hospital administration did not have the requisite facilities to treat such patients. Accident and cardiac patients too were sent to Patna after primary care. Deputy superintendent of the Chhapra Sadar Hospital Shambhu Nath Singh said almost a dozen patients are referred to PMCH from here everyday. Around two years ago, the State Health Society focussed its attention on upgrading the district hospital and gave the go ahead for setting up of an ICU here. The society sanctioned Rs 36 lakh for the purpose.

The construction of the ICU unit is over and all equipment required for its functioning are in place. Appointments of specialist doctors and paramedics are also under way.

Civil surgeon Amar Nath Jha said: “The building is ready and the ICU will start functioning in a month’s time. Specialised doctors will be present on the premises throughout the day. All necessary equipment and facilities have already been set up at the unit. There will be a separate room for heart patients. Ventilator and incubators too are being set up.”

Singh said the hospital would benefit people neighbouring Saran and Siwan districts as well Ballia in Uttar Pradesh.