Despite a decade of appeals, specialist posts in MIMS remain vacant
Despite a decade of appeals to authorities, these crucial positions remain unfilled for reasons best known to the govt and the authorities, causing considerable concern among healthcare workers, community leaders, and residents seeking medical assistance.
The absence of specialists compels cardiac and renal patients to seek treatment in nearby Mysuru or Bengaluru, resulting in additional expenses and physical strain for them, as well as their caregivers.
Healthcare experts claimed having a cardiologist in their neighbourhood could prevent five to six fatalities monthly. As heart attack incidents rise across Karnataka, Mandya's inadequate emergency cardiac facilities make it particularly susceptible.
Both MIMS and taluk hospitals lack proper equipment for critical cases, necessitating transfers and resulting in preventable deaths.
The district's medical facilities can only provide basic cardiac tests like ECG, ECHO, and CPK-MB.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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The past three months witnessed 20-25 cardiac-related deaths in Mandya, claimed medical professionals. Daily, 20-30 patients seek treatment for heart-related issues, with at least five patients requiring specialist care. Over 60 heart attack cases were documented in the previous two months, with most patients being transferred due to insufficient facilities.
Dr P Narasimhaswamy, director of MIMS, said, "Despite repeated efforts, we were unable to bring cardiologists or nephrologists to Mandya.
At taluk-level hospitals, ECG is often the only diagnostic tool available, and we lack the infrastructure to provide emergency cardiac care. On average, 30 patients come in with heart-related complaints, of which five are genuine cases. We manage mild and moderate ones, but serious cases are referred to Jayadeva Hospital in Mysuru.
We requested a cardiologist three months ago, and once again, we appealed to the govt to sanction posts for both a cardiologist and a nephrologist.
A cath lab would significantly improve outcomes and help us save lives," the director stated.
He further added, "Patients with kidney problems also visit us daily in more numbers. The lack of specialists places unnecessary burdens on patients and families. He also mentioned that they even requested the central govt for the facility. On average, 40 people undergo dialysis every day and nearly ten people come with kidney-related issues."
Farmer leader KS Nanjundegowda expressed sharp criticism, stating, "It is deeply unfortunate that Mandya still lacks a cardiologist and nephrologist—doctors who are essential for saving lives. Even after 10 years, this basic need remains unmet. Politicians have access to the best treatment anywhere, even abroad, but what about the common people?" he questioned.
"Crores are spent on unimportant projects just to benefit a few through commissions, but the most important healthcare has been neglected," he claimed and urged the govt to act immediately and appoint these specialists.
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