Chandigarh GMCH-32: 64 of 99 ventilators non-functional

Chandigarh: Out of 99 ventilators supplied by the Centre to Chandigarh's Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, during the COVID-19 pandemic, only 35 are currently functional, while 64 are non-functional, according to information shared by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in the Lok Sabha. 

The information has raised concerns over the upkeep of critical care equipment in one of the city's major government hospitals. 

The issue came to light following a query raised by Chandigarh MP Manish Tewari, who sought details on the ventilators provided to GMCH-32 during the pandemic and their present operational status.

According to the government's response, 99 ventilators were supplied to the hospital by the Centre. However, only 35 machines are currently functional, while 64 ventilators are no longer operational. The ministry did not specify the reasons behind the equipment becoming non-functional.

In his query, Tewari also sought information on whether the trauma centre at GMCH-32 was facing a shortage of technical personnel, including ventilator technicians. He further raised concerns regarding the availability of ventilators and trained technical staff at Government Multi-Specialty Hospital (GMSH), Sector 16, along with the adequacy of nursing and paramedical personnel at both government hospitals, reports The Indian Express.

Responding to these concerns, the Union Health Ministry stated that the Chandigarh Health Department had reported that both GMCH-32 and GMSH-16 have adequate nursing and paramedical staff. The ministry further informed Parliament that necessary measures are being taken to ensure the timely maintenance and repair of medical equipment and machines in these hospitals.

Reacting to the figures, Manish Tewari expressed concern over the number of non-functional ventilators, stating that the issue assumes greater significance as his office frequently receives requests from families of critically ill patients seeking ventilator support.

The issue has brought attention to the status of critical care infrastructure established during the COVID-19 pandemic. With government hospitals in Chandigarh continuing to manage emergency, trauma, and intensive care cases, the operational readiness and maintenance of life-saving equipment remain an important aspect of healthcare delivery.