PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Haridwar
Taking strict note of a woman delivering a baby on the floor at Haridwar Women’s Hospital, the Health department has terminated the services of contractual medical officer, Dr Suman following the submission of the report by the inquiry committee formed by chief medical officer, Dr R K Singh.
It is significant to note that on Monday night, a pregnant woman was denied admission, leading to her delivering the child on the hospital floor. This incident was captured on video and went viral on social media with viewers raising serious concerns about the functioning of the Health department in the State.
Speaking of the action, the CMO said that in addition to terminating Dr Suman’s services, strict action has been taken against the nursing staff found negligent in the case. “Such callousness will not be tolerated,” he warned, adding that the Health department is committed to serving all patients, sans discrimination and favour.
The principal medical superintendent of the hospital Dr Ranvir Singh said that the hospital has five sanctioned positions for female medical officers, but only two of these are currently filled. He also said a severe shortage of nursing staff and ward boys, which continuously impacts the system. The hospital handles, on average, 10 to 15 deliveries and approximately five operations daily. Although there are 30 beds for pregnant women, the shortage of doctors and staff makes it difficult to maintain a smooth 24-hour medical operation.
Additionally, the chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Women (USCW) Kusum Kandwal, also took cognisance of this matter. A member of the USCW has been directed to conduct an investigation, along with CMO has also been tasked with inquiring into the incident.
