Lack of medical staff has painted gloomy picture in sub-divisional hospitals (SDHs) in the Ludhiana. The situation is concerning with shortage of doctors and paramedical staff. It has adversely effected the healthcare facilities in several areas at a time when there are significant concerns regarding the state governments decision to transfer doctors from rural dispensaries (subsidiary health centres) to aam aadmi clinics.

Local health officials said that at SDH Jagraon, there are seven open emergency medical officer (EMO) positions, one open medical specialist position, and one vacant child specialist position. Three out of 15 staff nurse positions and 17 out of 23 ward attendant positions are also vacant.

A doctor working at SDH Raikot said that since the senior medical officer (SMO) resigned a few months ago, the medical officer now also serves as the SMO. There is only one regular Class IV employee, one pediatrician, and no radiologist; some work has been outsourced.

Only four out of the ten EMO positions at the hospital were filled at SDH Khanna. Positions for a surgeon, medical specialist, psychiatrist, pediatrician, and radiologist are still vacant. Also, 18 more staff nurses and Class IV workers were needed.

Similar circumstances exist in SDH Samrala. There are two open EMO positions, one open dermatologist and one open medical specialty position.

Meanwhile, residents wanted the situation to improve at SDHs and that the government should provide proper facilities at the hospital.

(Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ludhiana/shortage-of-specialists-leaves-sub-divisional-hosps-in-distress/articleshow/98593871.cms)