Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Sep 21: Udupi district hospital was built with the help of many generous people. But today it is lacking facilities and is in a very bad condition, said Dr P V Bhandary, renowned psychiatrist.
Addressing a press meet organised by Karavali Youth Club (R) on Friday, September 20, Bhandary said, "The district hospital was upgraded in 1997. It has been 22 years as of now. But no developmental work has been taken place. Infrastructural and man power shortage is obstructing smooth functioning at the hospital. At the time of upgradation, it was assured that the hospital will have 250 beds. Currently, the hospital has a footfall of 600 out patients and more than 160 in patients and it is challenging to accommodate them.”
“The hospital lacks staff. Politicians complain that due to lack of funding the upgradation process is slow. Sometime ago, it was said that National Rural Health Scheme will provide required funds for the government hospital. But later on, this was not sanctioned as the hospital was not in rural area. There are many ways to arrange for funds. Public have donated in various ways for the development of the district hospital. Small amount of money should be diverted for the developmental work from the MP and MLA funds. Rotary, Lions Club should also come forward in providing grants for the same. I will also extend my support for the development of district government hospital,” he said.
Dr P V Bhandary also complained about apathetic and lethargic attitude of the Hospital Development Committee.
Ramesh Kallotte, honorary president of Karavali Youth Club(R) said that they will submit an appeal to the Health minister B Sriramulu during his next visit to Udupi to take up the upgradation process as soon as possible. He also complained that under Ayushman Bharath Scheme, the patients who have been directed to private hospitals from district government hospital had to wait for many days to obtain treatments in private hospital.
Ashok Kumar, president, Sandesh Shetty, secretary, Suketh and other members of the Youth club were present.