Official apathy mars CHC in Uppinangady

A primary health centre in Uppinangady was upgraded into community health centre (CHC) five years ago without ‘upgrading’ the facilities available. The upgradation of the health centre remains only on paper and the board outside the hospital building.

The post of doctors and para medical staff continues to remain vacant.

Residents of Uppinangady, 34-Nekkiladi, Bellipady, Kodimbadi, Chikkamudnoor, Bannur, Padnoor villagers are depending on this health centre for health care.

As the national highway is situated nearby, accident cases are common. Even villagers of Ilanthila, Thekkar, Thannirupantha, Barya, Biliyur, Perne are also depending on this health centre. As per the rules of the government, the health centre should have six doctors, one dentist, six nurses, one lab assistant, one X-ray operator, two pharmacists, office superintendent-1, first grade assistant-1, second grade assistant-1, clerk cum typist-1, driver-2, Group ‘D’ staff-12, senior health assistant-1, junior health assistant-8 (males and females). Unfortunately, at present there is only one doctor.

The post of dentist lies vacant. About 31 posts are lying vacant.

The community health centre does not have X-ray machine and other equipments. Instead of 30 beds, the community health centre has only six beds.

There is also shortage of required building and quarters for the staff. About 200 patients visit the community health centre daily.

“There is only one doctor. We have to come early in the morning to get appointment and wait for our turn. Sometimes, the doctor will have to visit anganwadi centres and schools to diagnose the children. Sometimes, we have to wait till night to meet the doctor to get diagnosed and get medicines,” says one among the villagers.

“About 44 anganwadi centres come under the jurisdiction of the community health centre. We have been offering health care to the patients in coordination inspite of the severe staff crunch. Shortage of doctors, other para medical staff and lack of infrastructure have been brought to the notice of the elected representatives and concerned higher authorities,” said Dr Shashikala.