Kiphire, June 17 (MExN): The Akheda Sangtamlaru Thisngmujang (United Sangtam Women Association), Kiphire, has sought immediate action from the Health department in ensuring the smooth running of the District Hospital in the town, and keeping in mind the urgent need of the public in Kiphire district. Seeking the attention of the higher-ups in the department to take immediate remedial measures, the AST in a press release jointly signed by AST president, Litongla and general secretary, Selila listed out its observations regarding the district hospital.
Alleging that under the JSY scheme, where mothers are supposed to get Rs.1400 in Kiphire district, but that only Rs.700 was being paid, the AST questioned as to where “the half share” had gone. It also demanded that staff for the district hospital be posted urgently at Kiphire, since “many a times patients are referred to distant places due to shortage of staff”. Citing the shortage of staff quarters as one reason that discourages staffers from outside Kiphire, the women’s association advised the construction of staff quarters.
Further, the women’s association demanded that the department ensure adequate and timely supply of medicine stating that “providing only bed in hospital is not enough to cure the patient”. With the X-Ray machine lying unused “for reasons best known to the head of the department”, the public of the district are compelled to go to private practitioners who charge higher fees. The AST also pointed out the “immediate need” for a “security fencing around the department land” which, it asserted, would automatically discourage land encroachment by individuals.
“Although Kiphire was declared as a district headquarter, it is yet to avail the facilities required to function as a full fledged district hospital,” stated the Association calling for the department to look into the matter explaining that Kiphire was one of the farthest districts from the capital and that “economically the public are unable to go to far-off places for treatment”. The AST looked forward to the department taking up the matter “seriously on priority basis” and ensuring immediate remedial measures for the sake of the public of Kiphire district.
Meanwhile, the organisation applauded the medical personnel posted at the District Hospital, Kiphire, for their dedication and service to the public. “The service has saved many lives especially to womenfolk in delivery cases, in spite of the shortage of medical instruments and medicines” stated a grateful AST while conveying their prayer and hope that they “continue their precious service and the good Lord bless them”.
