Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Jan 6: To enhance hospital functioning and improve patient care, the Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar has introduced a QR-based feedback system in all its associated hospitals.
Officials told Excelsior that the system allows patients and their attendants to scan QR codes displayed at prominent hospital locations, redirecting them to a digital feedback form.
“The form enables users to share their experiences, rate services, and provide suggestions,” officials said, adding that the feedback would help hospitals improve existing services and address identified issues.
Patients and attendants can scan QR codes at key locations throughout the hospitals, such as reception areas, outpatient departments, and wards, to submit feedback either anonymously or with their contact details.
The rollout of the feedback system began on January 1 at SMHS Hospital. Within a week, the QR-based system became operational across all associated hospitals, including eight tertiary care hospitals and the Hazratbal Block.
Administrator GMC Srinagar, Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, stated that the system is designed to be user-friendly, enabling patients and attendants to provide feedback effortlessly.
“The feedback is instantly recorded and accessible to the administration for analysis and prompt action. Nodal Officers review the feedback daily, and necessary measures are taken accordingly,” he said.
For each hospital, a nodal officer has been designated to review feedback and implement corrective actions where needed.
Hakak emphasized that the QR-based feedback system aims to enhance patient experience, promote transparency, and improve operational efficiency.
“By leveraging feedback, the administration can identify areas for improvement and take prompt action to address concerns. Feedback related to areas within our control will be acted upon immediately, while issues beyond our scope will be escalated to appropriate levels,” he explained.
He emphasized the importance of feedback, stating: “The best ideas often come from people. While these ideas may already exist, they don’t always occur to us. Feedback opens a window for improvement.”
Officials stated that the introduction of QR codes integrates technology into healthcare, streamlining service delivery and boosting patient satisfaction.
“By involving patients and their families, the administration aims to set a benchmark for quality healthcare services,” they added.
Principal and Dean of GMC Srinagar, Prof. Dr. Iffat Hassan, called the initiative transformative.
“It allows us to actively engage with patients, understand their needs, and address their concerns promptly, ensuring continuous improvement in our service delivery,” she said.
