Already facing acute shortage of doctors, especially Physicians and Surgeons, Sub District Hospital (SDH) Sunderbani has faced another jolt after Director Health Jammu ordered attachment of a senior doctor to Sarwal Jammu, causing further void in this rural belt hospital.
According to sources, the local residents of Sunderbani are feeling dismayed after Dr. Abdul Hamid, a dedicated physician serving at the District Hospital, was abruptly attached to Sarwal Hospital in Jammu. “This move comes despite the fact that Sunderbani District Hospital is already grappling with a severe shortage of doctors, with more than three physicians managing the medical services while two positions of surgeons have been lying vacant,” said sources.
The situation has raised serious questions about the manpower resources distribution and whimsical decision-making process within the healthcare administration, particularly under the stewardship of the Director Health. Locals are questioning the wisdom of transferring Dr. Hamid, given the critical need for medical professionals in the Sunderbani area, which caters to the healthcare needs of three converging districts. They accused the Health services of prioritizing the Urban health services at the cost of rural and under serve area.
Many locals alleged that senior officers within the healthcare system have a history of obstructing doctors from serving in rural areas. They believe that the Director of Health may be influenced by powerful interests, leading to decisions that do not prioritize the healthcare needs of underserved communities.
“Dr. Abdul Hamid, a Medical Officer at Sunderbani District Hospital, was reassigned under order No BMO/S.B2023-24/1416-17, dated 15-09-2023, raising concerns about the future of healthcare services in the scarcely catered area. The removal of a physician from an already staff-deficient hospital has agitated locals, who are demanding resolution to this crisis.
When tried to contact Director Health, he was unavailable for comments.
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