Team Herald
PONDA: After two-and-a-half years, the government finally appointed a surgeon at the Ponda Sub-District Hospital.
Dr Sydney Palha’s appointment addresses long-standing concerns raised by the media and local residents who have had to seek surgical services at the Goa Medical College (GMC), South Goa Hospital, or private hospitals due to the lack of such services in Ponda.
While the appointment of a surgeon is a significant step forward, the primary demand from the people of Ponda remains the full upgradation of the SDH. Key requirements include the establishment of a CT scan facility, a blood bank, and other essential emergency services. Given Ponda's central location, residents from the neighbouring talukas of Dharbandora and Sattari would also greatly benefit from these upgrades.
Naresh Naik from Ponda pointed out that despite being inaugurated 12 years ago, the absence of a CT scan forces accident victims to be transferred to GMC.
The surgeon's post had remained vacant following the suspension of the previous doctor. Despite repeated appeals over the past two and a half years, the position had not been filled. It's worth noting that South Goa MP Captain Viriato and Opposition leader Yuri Alemao had also visited the hospital last year, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The lack of a surgeon had caused considerable hardship for patients, many of whom were compelled to travel to Panaji or Margao for even minor surgical procedures. With this new appointment, there is renewed hope among residents for better access to timely and quality medical care.
Sources at SDH have confirmed that Dr Palha has assumed his responsibilities and is expected to commence consultations and procedures soon.
Local resident Arun Naik acknowledged the persistent efforts of the Local MLA and Minister Ravi Naik in pursuing the filling of the surgeon's position. He also emphasized the critical need for an immediate blood bank at the SDH.
Social worker Viraj Sapre mentioned that he had recently written to the Prime Minister's Office on April 15, urging the urgent filling of the vacant surgeon post due to the difficulties faced by the community. He further stressed that a CT scan and other emergency facilities are essential, as many common citizens cannot afford the costly services offered by private hospitals.