CMCH cardiac dept affected by dearth of doctors

The cardiothoracic wing of the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) is short of doctors, and patients say it is affecting the quality of care.

Since it is the largest government-operated tertiary care hospital in the western region, CMCH manages to treat between 3,500 and 4,750 outpatients and 1,400 to 1,750 inpatients every day. Most patients from far-flung areas flock to the hospital for cardiac care. But staff reported that the department suffers since it does not have enough manpower.

"Just a month back, the situation was even more critical, and only one surgeon was handling the load. Therefore, major operations were having to be referred to other government hospitals in cities such as Chennai. Now, things are slightly better with the facility of a second surgeon.".

Yet we remain understaffed since the mandated strength is four surgeons but the department has been working with only two for decades. The shortage impacts patient care," sources stated. CMCH had four surgeons deployed to the department previously but now after recent promotions and postings it is working with only two.

Replying, Dean Dr M Geethanjali stated that they have made one of the appointments by recruiting a surgeon on deputation from Chengalpattu district. "Having 50% of our strength is enough even for major surgeries. We also hope that the remaining posts will be filled during the upcoming doctors' counselling," she said.

One official from the health department added that the shortage of manpower is not only restricted to CMCH, but it is a widespread problem among most of the government medical college hospitals in the state.

Dr P Senthilkumar, secretary of the health and family welfare department, has promised to investigate the issue.