Bandiporians seek clarity on medical responsibility as pregnant women face healthcare dilemma

Bandipora, June14: In the villages surrounding District Hospital Bandipora, concerns have risen as pregnant women face confusion regarding their healthcare responsibility. Villagers are now demanding answers from health authorities, seeking clarity on who precisely is accountable for their medical needs.

Residents from villages such as Gamroo, Papchan, Nadihal, Vijhara, Gundpora rampora, and Lawdara claim that health officials at District Hospital Bandipora have instructed pregnant women from these areas to travel approximately 15 kilometers to PHC Chuntimulla for necessary medical tests. However, this distant location, situated in a hilly area, poses significant challenges and inconveniences for expecting mothers.

In response to mounting complaints, the Medical Superintendent of DH Bandipora Sheikh Mushtaq has reached out to the Block Medical Officer (BMO) proposing the establishment of a testing lab in the nearby villages of Nadihal and Pazalpora. The Medical Superintendent expressed willingness to provide the required equipment, aiming to reduce patient traffic at District Hospital Bandipora and enhance efficiency.

"The intention behind this suggestion is to reduce patient influx at District Hospital Bandipora, enhancing the hospital's efficiency," he added.

However, further discussions with the recently appointed BMO Bandipora revealed the complexity of the matter. The BMO stated that they are considering the option of establishing a testing lab in Pazalpora, but a final decision is yet to be made.

The BMO emphasized that healthcare facilities should not be denied to anyone based on jurisdiction and catchment areas, emphasizing the importance of ensuring equal healthcare benefits for everyone regardless of their location.

As villagers continue to grapple with uncertainty, they anxiously await a resolution that brings clarity regarding the responsible authorities for their healthcare needs.

“We don’t know the politics and administrative issues. The fact is that pregnant ladies are denied tests at DH Bandipora and are asked to go from town to a remote village. Irony dies a thousand deaths in Bandipora,” said a pregnant lady while talking to Kashmir Convener.

The pregnant women hope for a swift resolution that ensures convenient access to necessary medical tests and facilities, bringing relief to their anxious hearts and minds. They appealed to the Deputy Commissioner to look into the matter.