Only 6 Doctors against 12 Sanctioned Posts at Kodaikanal Govt Hospital: RTI

Dindigul: The Kodaikanal Government Hospital in Dindigul is currently operating with only six doctors, leaving six of the 12 sanctioned positions vacant, according to a Right To Information (RTI) reply. The hospital is grappling with a severe shortage of doctors and medical staff, with several sanctioned positions lying vacant for over a year.

According to the health department, the facility was sanctioned 12 doctor positions, but only six have been filled. Similarly, out of the 24 sanctioned roles for housekeeping and multi-purpose workers, 15 remain vacant. The hospital, which caters to patients from remote areas around Kodaikanal, is facing increased pressure due to the staff shortage, forcing patients to seek treatment at distant health facilities. 

The RTI application filed by Activist Veronica Mary sought details regarding the total number of healthcare and other employees working at the hospital along with the footfall of patients. 

Also read- Rs 1.21 lakh Crore claims pending under Ayushman Bharat, reveals RTI

Expressing shock over the revelation in the RTI reply, Veronica Mary told TNIE, "In an upgraded primary health centre, four physicians will be in place. Kodaikanal Government Hospital is a taluk government hospital and only six doctors are present, whereas the sanctioned strength is around 12. All patients from remote regions in and around Kodaikanal come here in case of emergencies. Besides, referrals from primary health centres in Kodaikanal also come here. Other patients will be referred to health facilities in Palani, which is over 60 km away."