Baghmara: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday reviewed the mounting challenges faced by Baghmara Civil Hospital during his visit to the town, with acute staff shortages and the continued absence of specialist services emerging as major concerns.
During a meeting with district officials, community representatives and departmental heads at the Baghmara Circuit House, it was pointed out that although specialist doctors have been formally posted to the hospital, none have reported for duty so far.
As a result, patients continue to be deprived of specialist medical care.
Officials informed the chief minister that the hospital is functioning with just 11 medical officers against a sanctioned strength of 22 doctors, including specialists.
Severe shortages of nurses, biomedical personnel and other support staff have further strained healthcare delivery at the facility.
The review also highlighted infrastructure-related difficulties affecting patient care.
Issues such as inconsistent water supply, limited ambulance availability and inadequate post-operative care facilities were discussed, with officials acknowledging that these gaps have compounded the hospital’s operational challenges.
At the same time, it was noted that efforts are underway to improve facilities at the hospital. The blood storage unit has become operational and the operation theatre is functional, with caesarean sections and other surgical procedures currently being carried out.
To address sanitation concerns, a pilot project for the installation of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) has been initiated at the hospital and is expected to be completed within the next three to four weeks.
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Once commissioned, the STP is expected to ensure proper treatment of sewage and chemical waste and resolve recurring septic tank blockages caused by waterlogging.
Officials said the model could be replicated in other district hospitals if successful.
Taking note of the situation, the chief minister directed officials to immediately address the shortage of nurses and paramedical staff and ensure uninterrupted water supply using available resources.
He also instructed departments to begin repair and renovation works without delay to ease the pressure on the hospital and improve patient care.
On issues related to land compensation, the chief minister assured that the Ministry of Home Affairs will be apprised on the issue.
With respect to the land for the Baghmara Stadium, officials have been directed to resolve the matter within this week.
