Expecting mothers left in distress, forced to seek treatment elsewhere
HAJIN: The healthcare crisis at the Community Health Centre (CHC) Hajin has worsened after a gynaecologist, transferred to the hospital, failed to assume duty. The absence of the specialist has forced hospital authorities to suspend life-saving Lower Segment Caesarean Section (LSCS) surgeries, leaving expecting mothers in distress.
The issue arose after Dr Shani Alam was transferred from CHC Hajin following an order by the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK). A new gynaecologist was appointed in his place, but the doctor has not yet joined, causing severe disruptions in maternal healthcare services.
With no specialist available, pregnant women are now forced to travel long distances to CHC Sumbal or Lal Ded (LD) Hospital in Srinagar for routine check-ups and emergency procedures. This has caused significant hardship, especially for those from economically weaker backgrounds.
“I belong to a poor family and cannot afford treatment in private clinics,” said Raziya, an expecting mother. “In the absence of a surgeon here, we have no option but to visit CHC Sumbal or LD Hospital for surgeries. I appeal to the administration to send a gynaecologist as soon as possible so that pregnant women do not have to suffer anymore.”
She added that even for normal delivery, women are forced to travel to CHC Sumbal or LD Hospital, which is highly inconvenient.
Locals expressed their anger, questioning why the doctor has not joined despite being officially posted. “This hospital caters to nearly one lakh people, yet it remains critically understaffed. It is unfair to the residents and especially to pregnant women who need proper medical care,” said a local resident.
Aggrieved residents have urged authorities to take strict action against the absent doctor and ensure immediate arrangements for maternal healthcare at CHC Hajin.
CMO Bandipora, Dr Rafi Salati assured that the doctor will join duty next week. Speaking to Kashmir Reader, he said, “LSCS surgeries at CHC Hajin have been temporarily shifted to CHC Sumbal until the doctor assumes charge. People need not worry; we will resolve the issue within a week.”
It is pertinent to mention that following the death of a woman after childbirth at CHC Hajin, authorities transferred the doctor.