Anantnag: The Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag remains the only medical institution in the region where a vital biochemistry analyzer has not been procured for the past 7 months, causing serious inconvenience to patients who are now forced to seek expensive diagnostic services from private laboratories.
Sources told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that despite five written reminders from the Medical Superintendent, the equipment has not yet been arranged. The absence of a functional biochemistry analyzer, essential for routine blood and biochemical investigations, has severely affected diagnostic services at the hospital, leaving patients no option but to bear the burden of high costs at private diagnostic centres.
The issue has sparked growing frustration among patients and hospital staff alike, as the delay has continued despite repeated follow-ups. “We are made to run from pillar to post. A single test that costs Rs 200 at a government hospital costs over Rs 800 outside,” said a patient from Kulgam.
When contacted, Procurement Officer Dr. Sami Magray confirmed that a tender for the procurement of the biochemistry analyzer has already been issued. “We are in the final stages. The equipment will be procured within a few days,” he assured.
Principal GMC Anantnag, Dr. Rukhsana Najeeb, also acknowledged the delay but clarified that all necessary formalities have been completed from her side. “The analyzer is essential, and we have done everything required. The procurement process is now nearing completion,” she said.
Notably, a biochemistry analyzer is a crucial laboratory device used for measuring various substances in blood and body fluids, including glucose, enzymes, lipids, proteins, and electrolytes.
It is instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of health conditions such as diabetes, liver disorders, kidney function, and cardiovascular diseases. Without it, timely diagnosis and treatment can be significantly delayed, putting patient health at risk. [KNT]
