Odisha: Gajapati DHH recruits 14 specialist doctors from Andhra Pradesh
Berhampur- In an effort to address the shortage of doctors, the health administration of Odisha's Gajapati district has reportedly recruited 14 specialist doctors from private hospitals in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh.
Funds from the District Headquarters Hospital's (DHH) Patient Welfare Scheme have been utilised for the initiative. The specialists will provide services on different days under a contractual arrangement.
According to reports, the Parlakhemundi DHH has only 40 doctors against the required strength of 126, leaving 86 posts vacant. The shortage has raised concerns, as patients are falling victim to exploitation, while private hospitals in neighbouring states are reaping financial benefits.
As per the TNIE media news report, brokers regularly visit the DHH under the pretext of assisting doctors arriving from Andhra and helping patients overcome language barriers.
These brokers are allegedly persuading patients to visit private hospitals in a neighbouring state by promising them free treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Some of the patients are also transported to these cross-border hospitals in private ambulances.
Sources further alleged that private hospitals in Andhra Pradesh are establishing referral networks through intermediaries. It is alleged that patients are being compelled to pay for ambulance services, diagnostic tests, and treatment expenses even before receiving approval under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Reports indicate that many families are taking out loans to cover their medical expenses.
It has been alleged that some health officials and DHH employees are aware of this situation but have turned a blind eye to these activities.
Meanwhile, following reports of suspicious activities by touts in the paediatrics and maternity wards, Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Dr Shantanu Padhi banned their entry into the DHH.
While skirting the issue of recruiting doctors from Andhra Pradesh, the CDMO advised patients and their attendants not to fall prey to the middlemen active within the DHH.
