Five days after government lawyers publicly raised concerns over the quality of healthcare services at Unakoti District Hospital, SC Welfare Minister Sudhangshu Das on Tuesday acknowledged deficiencies in the hospital's medical services following a surprise inspection.
The minister's remarks came amid growing criticism over the functioning of the district hospital, particularly after allegations of medical negligence in the treatment of an advocate who later died. The issue has triggered widespread concern across Unakoti district, with both the legal fraternity and now a member of the state cabinet publicly highlighting shortcomings in the healthcare system.
Das visited the Unakoti District Hospital at Bhagaban Nagar in Kailashahar and spent nearly two hours inspecting its facilities. He was accompanied by Unakoti District Magistrate Megha Jain, In-charge Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ayan Roy and Medical Superintendent Dr. Rohan Pal.
During the visit, the Minister toured every major department of the hospital and interacted directly with admitted patients, their family members, doctors and healthcare workers to assess the quality of services being provided. He reviewed the functioning of the OPD and IPD, besides inspecting the pathology laboratory, blood bank, CT scan unit, dialysis centre, X-ray and ultrasonography facilities.
Speaking to local media persons after the inspection, Das said the overall environment of the hospital was satisfactory but admitted that there were deficiencies in healthcare delivery that require immediate attention.
"Our main objective was to assess the actual condition of the hospital. We interacted with officials as well as patients admitted to the hospital. While the overall situation is satisfactory, there are shortcomings in certain areas that need to be addressed without delay," the minister said.
He directed the Medical Superintendent to prepare a detailed report based on the findings of the inspection and said the report would be submitted to Chief Minister and Health Minister Dr. Manik Saha, the Director of Health Services and the Health Department Secretary for necessary action.
"We will place all the findings before the Health Minister and Chief Minister and discuss the matter with the Director of Health Services and the department secretary so that the identified issues can be resolved at the earliest," Das added.
The inspection assumes significance as it comes in the wake of protests by government lawyers, who recently alleged serious deficiencies in treatment at the district hospital following the death of an advocate after an accident. The lawyers had demanded a thorough inquiry into the incident and reportedly given the administration 45 days to take corrective measures. District Magistrate Megha Jain also monitored the inspection process.
The minister's public acknowledgement of shortcomings in the district hospital has further intensified the debate over healthcare services in Unakoti district. Attention is now focused on whether the state government will implement corrective measures to improve medical facilities and restore public confidence in the hospital.