Nepotism, Favouritism mars functioning of B’pora hospital

Suhail Rather

Bandipora, July 04 (PTK):  Favouritism, Political influence and nepotism has badly affected the routine functioning of Sub District Hospital Bandipora as the blue eyed persons are calling shots in the hospital.

At a time when authorities in health department claim to have an effective transfer policy to ensure better governance, favourite and blue eyed persons are overstaying at their favorite places of postings. District Hospital, Bandipora is akin to ‘mismanagement’ with regard to transfer of doctors and para-medical staff.

Officials said some of the Medicos, Medical Assistants and drivers posted there are working from the past 5-10 years. “These employees have not been touched by the successive governments and they continue to stay at their favourite place of posting at Sub-District Hospital, Bandipora ,” they said.

Local residents say the doctors and paramedic staff prefer to stay at SDH Bandipora so that they can perform private practices at private clinics.

Sources said that the ‘untouched’ medicos and paramedic staff have created a strong ‘lobby’ in the hospital and if any Medical Superintendent or Chief Medical Officer tries to get them transferred, this lobby along with the senior paramedics goes against the Medical Superintendent and CMO till his or her ouster.

“These doctors cut short their duty hours and go for private practice in clinics and private hospitals as they have considered the district hospital as their fiefdom.
Local residents alleged that many doctors ask the patients to visit their private clinics even though they come to hospitals for free treatment.

They said though they carried out strong complaints against the hospital administration but nothing was done.

Locals appeal Lieutenant Governor and Director Health to look into the matter so that people are not taken for a ride. (PTK)