Chandigarh: The trial run for the Outpatient Department (OPD) at PGI’s new Advanced Neurosciences Centre (ANC) was successfully conducted on Monday. A total of 581 patients were registered on the first day, providing the hospital administration a vital opportunity to test the infrastructure before the centre’s formal inauguration scheduled for April 30.Of the total footfall, 181 were new registrations, while 400 were follow-up patients. The shift from the cramped old facility to the spacious Level 2 of the ANC offered immediate relief to patients, who noted a significant reduction in overcrowding and “jostling” typically associated with the PGI.Prof Vivek Lal, director, PGI, described the trial as a major milestone. “This is a significant step towards patient-centric facilities. The dry run allows us to refine the system and address any operational gaps before the formal opening,” he said.Pankaj Rai, deputy director (administration), added that the team is currently streamlining specialised parking zones and designated routes to ensure seamless patient movement.Patients expressed satisfaction with the improved amenities, including cleaner restrooms, efficient lift access and adequate seating arrangements. However, the trial run also highlighted certain “teething troubles”:* The absence of a functional token system caused minor confusion during the wait.* While X-ray units are being activated, the reception, security desks and specialised lab counters are yet to be fully operational.* Many visitors struggled to find the designated parking areas, leading to temporary bottlenecks.To assist patients, 10 student volunteers from the Govt Model Senior Secondary School (GMSSS), Sector 23, will be deployed as “Sarthis” (guides) starting Tuesday.BoxThe PGI administration has released the operational schedule for the new centre:Department | Days | Timings |Neurology OPD | Monday, Wednesday, Friday |Special Clinic | Thursday | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM |Neurosurgery OPD | Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday | 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM |The Trauma OPD will continue to operate from its existing location for the time being.Patients and attendants can reach the new Advanced Neurosciences Centre via Gate No. 3 (located near the SBI Bank and Gol Market). Signage and help desks have been installed to guide visitors to the facility.Neurology patients who were seen in New OPD earlier15 April new patients 187 old patients 463- total 65017 April new 215 old 466 total 681Neurology patients seen in ANCApril new patients 181, old patients 400–total 581
