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Ambulance Delay Sparks Health System Outcry
21 May
Summary
- 40-minute ambulance delay during medical emergency reported.
- Hospital faced overcrowding, bed, and equipment shortages.
- Health Minister ordered an inquiry and suspended a driver.
Concerns have been raised regarding the public healthcare system in Telangana, following a recent incident detailed by social activist Robin Zaccheus. Mr. Zaccheus recounted his family's difficult experience during a medical emergency, highlighting significant delays and systemic issues.
He alleged that a 108 ambulance took nearly 40 minutes to reach his Malkajgiri residence after a senior family member suffered a stroke. Following the patient's transfer to the District Medical Hospital in Malkajgiri, doctors referred them to Gandhi Hospital. The situation worsened when the ambulance driver reportedly refused further transport, citing protocol requirements.
Furthermore, Mr. Zaccheus described severe overcrowding in Gandhi Hospital's emergency ward, with apparent shortages of beds, stretchers, and wheelchairs. Telangana Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narasimha has ordered a thorough inquiry into the matter and announced disciplinary actions. The ambulance driver involved, Kailash Rathod, has been suspended for negligence and protocol violations. Notices have also been issued to contractors responsible for sanitation and patient care at Gandhi Hospital concerning the reported deficiencies.
