Team Herald
MARGAO: The citizens of Margao have united in their call for a high-level committee to investigate patient referrals from the South Goa District Hospital (SGDH) to the Goa Medical College (GMC) and private hospitals. This demand comes in the wake of a tragic incident involving the death of a prominent citizen following an accident, which has highlighted serious concerns about the hospital's operations and emergency response capabilities.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, the group presented alarming statistics: a total of 17,425 referrals were made in the last four years, with an additional 2,389 referrals occurring between January and June of this year alone. These figures have led to SGDH being labeled a 'referral hospital', raising questions about its capacity to provide comprehensive medical care.
In a written representation, a group led by Prabhav Naik, who had previously raised this issue, emphasized the urgent need for improvements in the hospital's infrastructure and procedures.
The representation also called for an inquiry into the delays in shifting patients from SGDH to GMC, with particular emphasis on the case of Kane. This demand touched upon the growing concern over the hospital's ability to provide timely and effective emergency care.
"There is an immediate requirement for at least two cardiac ambulances and five other category ambulances exclusively dedicated to SGDH," the group stated. They pointed out that the current 108 ambulance service, which operates independently of SGDH, has been a significant factor in delayed patient transfers. The group specifically cited this as a primary reason for the delay in transferring Shridhar Pai Kane to GMC on the night of August 24, 2024.
To address these issues, the citizens have appealed to the Health Minister to conduct a personal visit to SGDH, accompanied by their representatives. They believe this will provide the Minister with first-hand information about the challenges faced by patients and their families. Additionally, they have suggested optimizing the use of vacant unutilised space within the hospital to enhance its capabilities.