Team Herald
MARGAO: The Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Chinchinim is facing overwhelming patient demand, prompting urgent calls for facility upgrades. Community members have raised the alarm about the adequacy of services and infrastructure needed to accommodate the growing number of patients.
Expressing concern, village panchayat Deussua-Chinchinim too highlighted the growing demand for healthcare services in the area and the need for improved infrastructure to accommodate the influx of patients.
Frank Viegas, the Sarpanch, believes that the facilities at the PHC fall short given the large jurisdiction it caters to, and the increasing demand for health services.
He wants the centre to be upgraded to a full-fledged hospital that can accommodate in patients, as this facility serves a population from various nearby villages that rely on it for medical assistance. Frank emphasised that a more comprehensive healthcare facility is essential to meet the needs of the community, particularly in emergencies.
In a letter to the Health Minister, Sarpanch Viegas highlighted the challenges the community faces in accessing health benefits and emergency services, noting that the primary health centre currently operates as a day care unit. "With rising health awareness and the esteemed services offered at the centre, the demand for medical care has significantly increased. In emergencies, especially during off-hours, we are forced to transport patients to the South Goa District Hospital," he stated.
He added that this situation not only burdens the district hospital but also consumes valuable time, which can be critical for emergency care. Additionally, it has come to his attention that emergency patients may not receive attention during lunch breaks.
"We want the government to consider our plea for the health and well-being of the people served by the PHC Chinchinim. Upgrading our facility to a PHC with beds for in-patients is urgently needed to meet the community's requirements," he demanded.