LAHORE:
In Punjab government hospitals, there are significant challenges to access essential image services such as X -rays, ultrasound, magnetic resonance (image of magnetic resonance) and computerized tomography (computed tomography), despite the official statements of medicines and free treatment facilities.
Although government hospitals claim to provide immediate access to X -ray services, ultrasound, magnetic resonance and computerized tomography in emergency situations, routine patients, on the other hand, often face long waiting times due to overcrowding. This is despite the fact that each quarter, the Government disburses billions of rupees to hospitals in Lahore, including May medical hospitals, general, services, Jinnah and Guru Nanak, to support medical facilities.
Abdul Rehman, resident of Lahore, shared his experience at the Hospital de Servicios, where his brother was taken after an accident. After receiving medical care in the emergency department, his family found a worrying situation when they were looking for a computerized tomography and radiography.
“When I brought my brother to the radiology department, the technician told me that he should take a photo of the reports with my mobile phone since the movies were not available. I am a poor man and I do not own a smartphone with a good quality camera. Eventually I had to look for the help of another person to capture the images, which was later shown to the doctor. Similarly, the X -ray image simply printed on each other.
According to the Department of Health, government hospitals throughout Punjab are dealing with severe financial challenges. Although the Punjab government recently published additional funds worth RS2 billion to support hospital operations, the problems that belong to the health system persist. In recent years, the Government has improved hospital infrastructure, renewed buildings and increased annual budgets, however, the rapid growth population has led to an increase in the influx of patients, exerting immense pressure on public medical care facilities.
The public health expert, Dr. Muhammad Ajmal, highlighted the fact that the growing population in the country required the construction of more hospitals. “Currently, the situation has become such that X -ray, MRI and computerized tomography are not available, because patients have to take photos on their phones. Doctors verify the reports of their phones, and this practice is becoming part of their routine. Radiological machines should also increase, “said Dr. Ajmal.
At the same time, it is also worth emphasizing that private sector medical care has become increasingly unaffordable for many citizens. In the last three years, the prices of medical supplies have shot, but the budget allocation for government hospitals has not kept the pace. Despite government financing, the gap remains uncovered. Similarly, the prices of films imported from X -rays, MRI and computerized tomography have increased significantly due to the increase in the value of the dollar, as well as raw materials for medications. Although medications are provided, shortage is still observed.
The sources have reported that budget allocations for government hospitals are determined depending on the number of beds each installation has. For example, the May Hospital, which has 2,484 beds, receives an annual assignment of RS3.3 million per bed. However, other hospitals in Lahore receive a higher allocation per bed.
The correspondent tried to contact Provincial Minister of Salman Rafiq, however, the official could not comment on the matter.
