Shortage of doctors: Queues stretch at Pudukai taluk hosp

THE taluk government hospital at Iluppur in the district is grappling with a shortage of doctors, leaving patients in distress.

- PEARSON LENEKAR SR @Pudukkottai

Essential units like the dialysis centre and maternity ward are non-functional, adding to the struggles of locals who rely on the hospital for basic health-care needs.

Only one permanent doctor is available though the hospital requires at least eight, said sources.

Two more doctors were deputed after protests by locals, but the situation has hardly changed. Patients from surrounding villages, where access to private healthcare is limited, are the worst affected.

Patients say they often have to wait for hours and even return home without receiving care.