Ettayapuram Government Hospital grapples with Doctor Shortage, Villagers Demand Action

Written by Medical Dialogues Team Published On 2025-02-09T15:15:59+05:30 | Updated On 9 Feb 2025 3:16 PM IST

Thootkhudi: Following the severe shortage of doctors at the Ettayapuram Government Hospital, residents have raised concerns about the need for more physicians. A petition led by A. Varadharajan, president of the Karisal Boomi Vivasayigal Sangam, highlighted the immense strain placed on the existing medical staff and the growing difficulties faced by patients.

According to Varadharajan, the current staff at Ettayapuram Government Hospital (GH) is overburdened as doctors tend to both outpatients and inpatients simultaneously, resulting in longer waiting times for patients.

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He alleged that the doctors are being deputed to other hospitals during weekdays, leaving the elderly to wait for over two hours for basic consultation. The GH has a sanctioned strength of five doctors however, the hospital currently operates with a reduced workforce as two of them had allegedly preferred to pursue higher studies. In addition to the lack of adequate personnel, Varadharajan pointed out that the hospital is also facing a shortage of necessary medical equipment, particularly for treating ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues.

Varadharajan further explained that doctors are frequently assigned to programs such as Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam, Varum Mun Kappom, medical awareness campaigns, and outdoor medical camps. As a result, patients are often referred to the Kovilpatti government hospital, located over 20 km away, for services like ECGs, X-rays, and other scans, he added.

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Speaking to TNIE, Varadharajan said, "The Ettayapuram taluk has a 30 km-long stretch of national highways, which is prone to road accidents. Over 56 villages depend on the Ettayapuram GH. The state government must consider appointing more doctors."

In response to the allegations, a senior official from the health department reassured that efforts are being made to fill the vacancies. Two doctors have already been deputed from Kovilpatti Government Hospital to assist with the shortage at Ettayapuram GH. The official also mentioned that counseling for new doctors is currently in progress, and the necessary steps will be taken to ensure that the hospital is staffed appropriately.

doctor shortagegovernment hospitalpetitionrural healthcare

Medical Dialogues Team