Teliamura, Feb 29, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Teliamura, Feb 29: Teliamura Sub-divisional Hospital is grappling with a severe shortage of medicines which has caused difficulties among patients. 

The hospital's medical services have been adversely affected for several months due to a lack of funds in both the Ayushman Bharat and Patient Welfare Association accounts.

It was learnt that Ayushman Fund disbursements were regular until May 2023, but it became sporadic thereafter, which left the hospital into a financial crisis. 

Despite efforts to procure medicines through vendor tenders, outstanding bills remain unpaid for the past six months, totaling approximately Rs 26 lakh.

The situation has forced the hospital to withhold salaries for numerous irregular health and sanitation workers, exacerbating the crisis. 

Besides, the scarcity of essential medical supplies such as saline and cotton has left OPDs and clinics undersupplied, compelling patients with Ayushman cards to bear out-of-pocket expenses for treatment.

In response to inquiries, the Sub-divisional Health Officer acknowledged the financial strain afflicting the hospital and emphasized the urgency of intervention from higher authorities.

He also claimed that it has been taken to the notice of higher authorities to take necessary steps in this regard.