The Advance Eye Centre (AEC) of PGIMER is set to expand with a new six-storey building. This extension will rise next to the existing four-storey structure to help manage the increasing number of patients.
Every weekday, the AEC handles around 1,400 patients in its out-patient department (OPD). About 100 surgeries, including minor and major procedures, are performed daily. Currently, the centre operates with six operation theatres. The upcoming expansion will add four more theatres, along with 18 additional admission beds.
The ₹98-crore project received approval last year from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Recently, the preliminary design has also been cleared by the UT administration. PGIMER is now preparing a detailed project map, which will be submitted for final approval and environmental clearance.
Once construction begins, the new block is expected to be completed within 18 months.
“With more operation theatres, we will be able to increase surgeries and reduce patient waiting times. Our team of about 30 faculty members is ready to handle more surgeries,” said Dr SS Pandav, head of PGIMER’s ophthalmology department.
Dr Pandav also explained that minor surgeries, like cataract operations, do not require hospital admission. “Patients are usually discharged on the same day after surgery, which is why the number of beds remains low,” he added.
In the 2023-24 period, the OPD registered 1.23 lakh new patients. The total footfall, including both old and new patients, crossed 3.09 lakh.
Out of the six new floors, two will be dedicated to the drug de-addiction centre. The remaining floors will support the ophthalmology department. Additionally, two corridors will connect the old and new buildings on the second and third floors.
The Advance Eye Centre was established in 2006. It currently houses eight special clinics, six operation theatres, modern medical equipment, laboratories, and an emergency unit, all within a 1,10,000 square foot area.
“This expansion marks the second phase of development for the centre. It aims to handle the growing patient load more efficiently,” said Pankaj Rai, deputy director administration, PGIMER.
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