NGO 5 Rivers Heart Association (5RHA) has submitted a proposal to the Punjab government to establish a medical college and teaching hospital in Nawanshahr under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The proposed project is envisioned as the first phase of the Panjab University Hospital and Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, which aims to develop Punjab’s first comprehensive university hospital and academic medical centre.
The initiative seeks to bring together advanced healthcare, medical education, research and innovation under a single integrated healthcare system.
Focus on Advanced Healthcare and Medical Education
According to 5RHA, the proposed institution would expand access to specialised healthcare services in Punjab while creating new opportunities for medical education and research.
The project would combine:
- Advanced patient care
- Medical and healthcare education
- Medical research
- Healthcare innovation
- Workforce development
- International academic and medical collaborations
The association believes such an integrated institution could help address the growing demand for specialised healthcare services while strengthening Punjab’s medical education ecosystem.
Global Expertise and Investment
The initiative is being led by 5RHA with support from physicians, scientists, educators, healthcare leaders and members of the Punjabi diaspora in the United States.
The organisation said the proposed medical centre could attract global expertise, investment and international collaborations, helping Punjab develop a stronger healthcare and medical research ecosystem.
The project is also expected to contribute to the state’s economic development by creating employment opportunities and building a specialised healthcare workforce.
Vision for Punjab’s Healthcare Sector
5RHA said the long-term objective is to create a sustainable academic health institution capable of serving future generations while positioning Punjab as a centre for healthcare excellence and medical innovation.
The proposed university hospital would bring together clinical services and academic activities, allowing medical professionals and students to work alongside researchers and specialists.
Such a model could also help create an environment for the development and adoption of new medical technologies and treatment approaches.
5RHA Seeks Government Support
The association has urged the Punjab government to consider the proposal and expressed its willingness to work with the state in developing the project.
Dr. Swaiman Singh of 5RHA said Punjab has an opportunity to establish an institution that could provide high-quality healthcare while also training future healthcare professionals and advancing medical research.
He said the organisation’s broader objective is to ensure that future generations can access world-class healthcare, education and research opportunities within Punjab, reducing the need for patients and students to look outside the state.
If approved and implemented, the project could become a major addition to Punjab’s healthcare infrastructure and create a new academic hub combining medical treatment, education, research and innovation.
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