If the hospital itself is not healthy, how can it improve patients’ health?
Sayeesa Shaban
Strengthening healthcare has always been a priority in Jammu and Kashmir. Every year, huge funds are utilised on health services for better patient care. Yet, even in the 21st century, there are hospitals in some areas that still lack modern healthcare facilities. One such institution is the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Dangiwacha, located in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, en route to the well-known picnic spot of Mundajji, about 18 kilometres from the district headquarters.
PHC Dangiwacha, a Health & Wellness Centre under Ayushman, was previously situated on Yarbug Road but was moved to a new building near Butsuma in 2023. While the new building is mostly adequate, several issues overshadow the improvements. The hospital caters to hundreds of patients weekly from both the upper and lower belts of Rafiabad, emerging at par with the Sub-District Hospital in Sopore. Unfortunately, it still lacks basic facilities, compelling patients to seek care at SDH Sopore or the district hospital in Baramulla.
A glimmer of hope appeared among the people of Rafiabad when the hospital shifted to its new location. But the hospital began functioning from its new building with no new facilities—nothing more than nayi botalon mein purani sharab (old wine in new bottles). Even a relatively simple case is often referred to Baramulla hospital for treatment. Quite often, patients have succumbed to serious ailments on the way. If, God forbid, the status quo remains, the day is not far when this newly shifted hospital, too, will lose its image in the area.
I write this as a local, hoping the concerned authorities will take notice. All I want to bring to their attention is the suffering people endure when visiting this hospital. Recently, during my visit, I saw these hardships firsthand. If healthcare is a priority, why is this hospital still lagging behind in modern times? The people of Rafiabad expect this hospital to be developed as it deserves.
From the outside, the Dangiwacha hospital tells its own tale. Beyond its internal healthcare facilities, the building itself appears incomplete. A mere cemented structure does not mean the hospital is complete. An under-construction central lab just to the left of the entrance speaks volumes. How can a health centre be fully functional when construction is still ongoing? Moreover, does it suit a health and wellness centre to have stray dogs roaming in packs inside the premises? It is not a healthy sign for an institution where people come to heal. Literally speaking, if the hospital itself is not healthy, how can it improve patients’ health?
I also noticed chamomile, locally called Phakegasse, an undesired grass, grown in the front and backyard to such a height that it has entered through the windows into the wards. Doctors are usually known for their aesthetic sense, so I was surprised to see the hospital looking so shabby. The compound appeared more like overgrown bushes than a health centre. Moreover, the drainage system is not functioning, and the open trenches behind the building pose a danger to both patients and staff.
It is worth mentioning that near this hospital, a new court complex is under construction. Its modern design has earned public praise for the contractors. The new court building looks well-built and lawful, but alas, the Dangiwacha hospital has been treated step-motherly. It is time we develop and upgrade this hospital on modern design lines, as it caters to patients from the entire Rafiabad area.
My memorable experience at this hospital recently highlighted areas needing improvement. First, the entire building should be made more attractive. The hospital’s backyard requires attention; stray animals must be kept at bay, and the backyard should be maintained with the same care as the front. Second, the space in front must be restored for parking, with complete fencing for decorative aesthetics. Finally, beyond the 24×7 availability of doctors and the maintenance of hygiene, the hospital also needs drinking water facilities for attendants, as well as the installation of equipment for which patients currently have to travel to Sopore or Baramulla.
If the trauma hospital in nearby Watergam can be made attractive, clean, and patient-friendly, why can’t the same approach be applied to Dangiwacha hospital? Dangiwacha deserves care, not compromise. The sooner the best healthcare access arrives here, the better.
sa*******@***il.com