3 year old dies after alleged delay in treatment at Odisha Hospital

Bhanjanagar: A three-year-old boy died at Bhanjanagar Sub-Divisional Hospital in Odisha’s Ganjam district after his family allegedly faced a delay in getting timely medical care, highlighting concerns over the hospital’s shortage of doctors.

With only 12 doctors against 52 sanctioned posts, the hospital is facing a severe manpower shortage, which has raised concerns over delays in patient care.

The child had reportedly been suffering from fever for three days and was admitted to the hospital around noon on Tuesday. According to his family, his condition worsened around 5 pm, following which they called for a doctor. They alleged that no doctor was immediately available and that the delay in receiving medical attention contributed to his death, reports The Daily.

Hospital authorities, however, have denied any negligence. They said the child was suffering from fever and a respiratory infection and was admitted by a paediatrician after his condition became critical. The hospital maintained that he was provided the necessary medicines and injections.

According to a report by Odisha TV, considering his critical condition, a paediatrician had admitted him and provided the necessary medicines and injections as part of his treatment.

The Sub-Divisional Medical Officer also denied the allegations and said the child had received the required medical attention.

The shortage is particularly significant for a sub-divisional hospital that caters to patients from Bhanjanagar and surrounding areas, where timely access to specialist and emergency services can be critical. A large number of vacant posts can also place greater pressure on the doctors available, potentially affecting round-the-clock coverage and the hospital’s ability to respond promptly to patients whose condition suddenly deteriorates.