Punjab Hospitals Lack Essential MRI Machines

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the state's health secretary to address significant deficiencies in district hospital infrastructure. During a hearing concerning the Malerkotla district hospital, the court expressed shock at the lack of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) despite its 130-bed capacity.

The court is scrutinizing the state's policy on diagnostic equipment, questioning why CT scan and MRI machines are not considered essential facilities in every district hospital. The Punjab government's affidavit stated these machines are classified as 'desirable' under Indian Public Health Standards, not mandatory, and are subject to clustering models. This explanation was deemed inadequate by the bench.

Further concerns were raised about specialist medical officer posts at the Malerkotla hospital. The government claimed all 15 sanctioned posts were filled, but the petitioner disputed this, noting specialists had not joined or were transferred. The court is seeking clarity on recruitment versus transfer policies for filling these crucial positions.

In response to specialist shortages, the government indicated a proposal for around 161 new specialists awaits Cabinet approval. They also mentioned recent guidelines allowing temporary engagement of private specialists. The court has mandated a fresh affidavit within a week detailing improvements to diagnostic and critical care facilities.