From Our Correspondent
MAWKYRWAT, Nov 1: The Mawkyrwat Civil Hospital in South West Khasi Hills, which was inaugurated amidst much fanfare in December last year, 10 years after the foundation stone was laid, is already grappling with multiple issues, as brought to light by the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC).
According to the HYC, following several complaints from various quarters, they discovered that the hospital is not at par with several other district hospitals in the state.
Walam Nongsiej, president of the HYC Mawkyrwat Circle, met the Medical Superintendent, Dr W Sutnga, on Wednesday to discuss the inadequacies of the only major hospital in the district.
As per the HYC, the hospital still lacks manpower including doctors, nurses and other supporting staff.
The HYC pointed out the severe shortage of medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and support staff.
Reportedly, out of the sanctioned 33 doctor positions, the hospital currently employs only eight doctors.
The hospital also lacks essential healthcare services such as Intensive Care Units (ICUs), Operation Theaters (OTs), and vital medical equipment. However, the hospital, initially inaugurated with a capacity of 100 beds at a cost of Rs 22.41 crores, is now contemplating an expansion to 130 beds.
This expansion plan involves replacing the old Community Health Centre (CHC) building with a new Outpatient Department (ODP) complex, according to information provided by the medical superintendent.
The HYC further alleged that the District Medical & Health Officer (DMHO) still lacks a proper office for the DM&HO who has to operate from a doctor’s quarter, which is far from ideal for the administration of healthcare services.
Urging the local legislator to urgently address the issues and ensure that the hospital receives the attention it requires, the HYC said it also plans to raise their concerns with the Health Minister, Ampareen Lyngdoh, in the near future.