Shimla, Aug 13,
The transition of six important Outpatient Department (OPD) services from Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Hospital in Shimla to the newly inaugurated Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialty Hospital in Chamiyana has stirred significant concerns among patients and healthcare workers about transport mobility or access to reach this facility.
In a recent administrative move, the Himachal Pradesh government has planned this shift, which took effect on August 12. On the first day of the relocation, the new OPD block at Chamiyana witnessed a substantial influx of patients, with a total of 352 registered.
However, the shift has not been without its challenges. Patients have reported severe difficulties in accessing the new facility due to inadequate transport arrangements. The absence of proper transportation options has left many struggling to reach the hospital, with some resorting to walking or paying exorbitant taxi fares.
The hospital administration also has highlighted these issues, publicly flagging the government’s lack of planning regarding patient transport. They have called for immediate action to address the transport problems to ensure patient convenience.
Additionally, patients have faced inconveniences due to the lack of essential facilities at the new location, including the absence of a canteen and even testing services.
Several patients expressed their frustration with the transition. Pyaar Singh, a 62-year-old from Hamirpur, recounted his struggle to get treatment, stating that he and others had waited for hours at IGMC only to be informed late about the relocation. He added that the transport situation was dire, with many unable to afford the high taxi fares.
Residents from various areas have also voiced their concerns. Surendra Sharma from Summerhill reported waiting for a taxi, ultimately having to accept a lift from a passerby to reach the hospital. He, along with many others, has urged the government to first ensure adequate facilities at Chamiyana before making such significant shifts.
As of August 13, the new OPD block at Chamiayana has registered the following patient numbers Cardiology: 66, Gastroenterology: 93, Nephrology: 1, Neurology: 66, Plastic Surgery: 6 and Urology: 121.
The operational and logistical challenges pertaining to access to this newly started facility has raised a concern on the government’s decision to move the OPD services. Now, it remains to be seen how quickly these issues will be resolved and whether the necessary measures will be implemented to improve patient access and service quality at the new location.
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