No surgery since stalemate began: HoD tells court

SHILLONG: The Cardiology department of NEIGRIHMS on Monday told the High Court of Meghalaya that no surgery has been performed, but only diagnostic emergency has been carried out since after the stalemate in premiere health care institute.
The head of the department, Dr Animesh Mishra, assisted by Dr. Amit Malviya made the submission during the hearing on a public interest litigation in connection with the standoff between the department and the institute’s administration which has led to suspension of surgeries for want of various devices.
They informed the court that Amrit Pharmacy did not provide the items required for surgeries even though its representative had assured to make these available within 4-5 hours of the high level meeting held on May 9 on the order of the court.
The court was told a letter was sent regarding non-supply of the items and how that had hampered surgeries.
The court on Monday asked the head of the department to file an affidavit indicating item wise whether the decisions taken in the high level meeting chaired by the additional chief secretary were followed in letter and spirit.
According to court order, Amrit Pharmacy which is not arrayed as a party is arrayed as a party respondent through Rupa Chakraborty who shall also file an affidavit and state as to whether she has followed the decisions taken in the meeting.
The affidavits and the response thereof will have to be filed before May 16.
Dr. Mishra said that at present 19 patients are waiting for surgery and requisite items are to be made available from Monday so that the surgeries can be performed.
“The HoD Cardiology will send the requisition whatever needed to the Medical Superintendent
today and thereafter Medical Superintendent shall ensure supply of those articles without fail,” the Court said.
The matter has been listed for hearing on May 16.
While taking serious note of postponement of surgeries, the court had earlier directed that the head of the department and Director shall work out a formula so that patient care did not suffer.