SANGUEM: A state-of-the-art X-ray machine installed at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Sanguem has remained inoperative due to inadequate power supply. This oversight by the authorities has left patients without access to crucial diagnostic services.
The PHC, equipped with the sophisticated X-ray machine, has been unable to provide X-ray services because the power supply does not meet the machine’s voltage requirements. In most cases, the X-ray machine fails to turn on, and even if it manages to start, it shuts down almost immediately.
This situation has rendered the radiologist, who visits the PHC three times a week, idle. With no private X-ray clinic in the town, patients are compelled to travel to Curchorem to get X-rays.
The deterioration of power supply to the PHC has worsened in recent months due to the construction of new buildings in the vicinity. Initially, when the machine was installed two years ago, it functioned for a brief period. However, the surge in new constructions nearby has disrupted its operation. Despite numerous attempts by the PHC to address the power supply issue, have seen no resolution. Meanwhile, the demand for X-ray services has been increasing, due to the rising number of road accidents. Adding to the frustration is the fact that the radiologist's three days of service allocated to Sanguem PHC go to waste, as the non-operational X-ray machine prevents him from providing valuable medical support elsewhere, where functional equipment is available.