Sajid Raina
Bandipora, May 26: The ophthalmology department at the district hospital in Bandipora district has been facing significant disruptions as the ophthalmologist, who was transferred by the health department a month ago, has failed to report for duty.
Patients said that the absence has created a void in essential eye care services, leaving patients in distress.
The ophthalmologist was assigned to the district hospital Bandipora on May 29 with the intention of enhancing the quality of eye care services for the local population. However, the delay in his arrival has hindered the smooth functioning of the ophthalmology department, causing a backlog of pending work and impacting the overall patient experience.
Rafiq Ahmad, who has been suffering from a chronic eye condition, stated, “The absence of the ophthalmologist has made it difficult for us to receive timely treatment and follow-up care”.
“My vision has been blurry for weeks, and I was hoping to see the ophthalmologist for a diagnosis. It’s disappointing that he hasn’t joined yet. I really need their expertise,” another Mushtaq Ahmad said, who said he cannot afford treatment at a private clinic.
Director of Health Services in Kashmir, Dr Mushtaq Ahmad said that the doctor who was transferred to the hospital is currently experiencing health issues.
As a result, a corrigendum will be issued to amend the previous order, and another doctor will be assigned to replace him.