BUDGAM: The New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Chewdara village in Beerwah Tehsil of Budgam district is working without a doctor from last seven months forcing patients to visit other hospitals.
This is the only health centre for seven villages of Beerwah tehsil including Chewdara, Ohangam, Mirpora, Wanhiuma, Chak, Machama and Dragar having population of more than 13,000.
The locals said that in absence of a doctor, they have to visit the sub-district hospital Beerwah. “The medical assistant is providing the treatment to patients,” they said.
A group of patients, who visited the NTPHC Chewdara, said that they are facings lot of difficulties due to non- availability of doctor at the health centre.
The locals said that the permanent doctor at the health centre was attached by higher officials to JLNM Hospital atRainwariandthe vacant postwas never filled.
“If the government have created the hospital for the welfare and benefit of villagers, why are they taking us for ride,” said Haji Mohammad Sultan Mir, resident of Chewdara village.
“Most of the patients do not prefer to visit this hospital as there is no doctor for the patients who can provide them treatment,” Mir added.
He said that the employees at the health centre are attending their duties regularly, but due to the non-availability of a doctor, the healthcare has been affected.
Chief Medical officer (CMO) Budgam, Nazir Ahmad Bhat said that the permanent doctor of the health centre is presently working at JLNM Hospital as per the orders of the directorate.
He said if the people will submit written application, then they can take any action.
“The orders comefrom directorate of health services,” he added.

ARIF RASHID