Kerala: Senior doctor cites glaring shortcomings at state-run hospital; Govt admits to lapses
Meanwhile, Dr Haris reiterated that his remarks were made in the interest of his department and patients, citing a lack of response from higher authorities. The revelation by the doctor has raised serious questions on the 'Kerala model' of health system which is often used at various forums across the world
Thiruvananthapuram: It just took a hard-hitting Facebook post and 2 days for a senior doctor at the Thiruvananthapuram medical college to expose the glaring shortcomings of the government-run medical college and the medical apathy in the state capital where thousands of common people arrive for treatment at moderate cost.
Dr Haris Chirakkal, the urology department head voiced his frustration about the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College where he has been serving on his Facebook post on July 28 after multiple surgeries were delayed due to a lack of necessary tools. He expressed disappointment at having repeatedly approached the authorities without success, calling the postponement of surgeries "shameful and regretful” in front of underprivileged patients. While he later deleted his social media posts, he stood by his remarks and stated that he was unconcerned about repercussions.
"I have been under tremendous pressure as department head. After taking leave, I posted on social media because I couldn’t bear the mental anguish of not fulfilling my commitment to the patients who depend on us for care. I even considered leaving the service; I was simply exhausted,” he shared.
Dr Chirakkal agreed to delete the post after receiving an assurance from a relative, a CPM leader, that the health minister’s office would address the matter.
"We admit the lapses, will find solutions”: Veena George
Following Dr Haris Chirackal’s Facebook post, Health Minister Veena George said the issue will be investigated. "We recently purchased machinery worth Rs 700 crore for the medical college. It also comprised equipment for the urology department. However, as the doctor has now raised an issue, we will investigate it and see if there are any lapses,” she said.
Health Minister Veena George has ordered an investigation into allegations raised by Dr Haris Chirakkal, head of the urology department at Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital, a day after he publicly criticised the lethargy of senior officials in addressing critical shortcomings in patient care.
Describing Dr Haris as "honest and hard-working,” the minister on Sunday acknowledged that systemic lapses could have contributed to the delay in resolving issues. "This is a matter of the system, which includes more than just the government,” she said. "I have sought a comprehensive report on the matter.”