Lahaul, Spiti Residents urge appointment of Pediatrician, Gynaecologist at Keylong Hospital
Himachal Pradesh: Residents of Lahaul and Spiti have appealed to the state government to appoint a paediatrician and a gynaecologist at the district hospital in Keylong, highlighting the need for improved healthcare facilities at the hospital.
The hospital currently has an orthopaedic specialist and an anaesthesia expert, but the lack of paediatric and gynaecology specialists has made it increasingly difficult for the local population to access essential treatments.
Rigzin Samphel Heyreppa, a resident of Lahaul has mentioned that following the opening of the Atal Tunnel, their area has become a thriving destination for the tourist. He further emphasized the importance of healthcare services in the region, given the growing number of tourists. However, the region has not adequately addressed this increasing demand for healthcare. He further mentions that better healthcare facilities are needed to support tourism and ensure the well-being of residents.
A member of the District Council for Lahaul and Spiti named Kunga Bodh emphasized the need for paediatricians and gynaecologists to deliver essential healthcare services directly to the community. He mentions that as winter approaches and heavy snowfall becomes imminent, residents face increased challenges in accessing medical care outside the valley. He also adds that the government must send doctors committed to serving in this tribal district, especially during the harsh winter months.
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According to The Tribune, Local resident Mohan Lal Relingpa criticizes political parties for their failure to fulfil promises made to them regarding improvement in healthcare facilities made during election campaigns. “Once they are in power, they ignore the problems of the citizens,” he adds.
Local residents of Lahaul and Spiti are especially concerned about the health of children and expectant mothers, as they require consistent access to medical care. They urge the state government to prioritize the deployment of a paediatrician and a gynaecologist at the Keylong hospital.
Anuradha Rana the MLA of Lahaul and Spiti has also expressed concerns and raised the issue with the government, advocating for better healthcare facilities in the district. In response to the pressing demands of healthcare services, the health authorities of Lahaul and Spiti have also informed the higher authorities of the Health Department in Shimla regarding vacant posts of specialists at the Keylong hospital.
