Free pharmacy store, convergence block inaugurated at AIIMS

Out-patients at AIIMS will be able to get free generic drugs from tomorrow, thanks to a pharmacy store that opened on its campus today.
Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad inaugurated a 'Free Generic Pharmacy Store' and a multi-storied Convergence Block that will house departments from the academics as well the hospital.
"Some 9,000-10,000 patients visit the OPD wards at AIIMS. And this store will specially cater to those weaker sections of society who cannot afford medicines. So, about 4,000 of them will benefit from this. The ensuing cost of roughly Rs 1.2 crore per month will eventually be borne by the Health Ministry," Azad said.

According to a staff at the store, 198 kinds of generic drugs are available at the campus.
The Convergence Block, a 12-storied complex including two floors of basement, now stands as the tallest building on the campus. It has been built at a cost of over Rs 50 crore.
"The building will house teaching blocks, laboratories, lecture theatres, research centres, among other facilities. Built with a central AC facility and power back-up system, it is a state-of-the-art amenity. It also has a public address system," Azad said.
"I am sure this facility will get us some space that we really need here at AIIMS. And, it has been built in record time," Director of AIIMS M C Misra said.

Azad said the current UPA government had undertaken massive constructions in Delhi and neighbouring areas and the building coming up in 1.5 years is good news.