Kulgam, Feb 06: After political leaders urged the concerned department to associate District Hospital (DH) Kulgam with GMC Anantnag, activists and medicos on Thursday joined the chorus and echoed the same sentiment, believing it will be a positive step.
Irfan Gull, political activist said that Associating Kulgam Hospital with GMC Anantnag would be a highly beneficial initiative. By having doctors from all specializations available at Kulgam Hospital, it would significantly improve healthcare access for the people.
“This collaboration would not only serve the residents of Kulgam but also provide relief to people from neighboring areas, including Shopian. With expert medical professionals available closer, patients would benefit from timely consultations and treatments, reducing the need for long travel to distant hospitals,” he said.
Irfan added that this move would enhance the overall healthcare infrastructure in the district and ease the burden on patients who currently face challenges in accessing specialized care.
A medico at the hospital said that its association with GMC Anantnag will have a positive impact, but there is a significant need for infrastructure upgrades and advanced equipment.
He said there is a need for more OPD rooms, improved washroom facilities, high-end equipment, and specialist consultant posts.
“The hospital caters to a large catchment area, serving around 1,500 or more patients on average. It should have better and more OPD rooms, as well as proper accommodation for doctors on night duty. Additionally, the hospital’s unhygienic washrooms require immediate attention. The cooperation of patients and attendants is also crucial for the smooth functioning of such facilities,” he added.
Earlier, in November M.Y. Tarigami, MLA Kulgam, had also proposed associating DH Kulgam with GMC Anantnag for the greater good of the public.
“I have written to the Health Minister, met the Chief Secretary previously, and taken up the matter to associate DH Kulgam with GMC Anantnag. I also raised it in a meeting at Kulgam, where it received unanimous support,” Tarigami had said
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Imran Nabi Dar alleged that the OT at the hospital shuts down at night, questioning how it qualifies as a district hospital if it doesn’t operate round the clock.
He said that he has taken up the matter with Sakina Itoo, the Health Minister, and that the hospital should be associated with GMC Anantnag.
