Doctor shortage at PHC Tukroo leaves over 30 villages worried about healthcare

Shopian Aug 28: The Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Tukroo in south Kashmir’s Shopian district is facing a shortage of doctors and other medical staff, leaving residents of the surrounding areas worried about the availability of healthcare, particularly during emergencies and night hours.
The residents said that the health centre caters to people from more than 30 villages and serves as an important first point of medical care for a large rural population. However, they alleged that the shortage of manpower has affected the functioning of the facility, with patients often facing difficulties in accessing medical attention when they need it most.
Locals said the absence of a doctor during night hours is particularly concerning, as patients requiring urgent medical attention are forced to look for alternatives or travel to hospitals in other areas.
“People come to the PHC with the expectation that they will receive immediate medical attention, but the shortage of doctors and staff becomes a major problem, especially at night. In an emergency, even a short delay can create serious difficulties for a patient,” a local said.
Another resident said the problem becomes more difficult for elderly people, children and patients from remote villages who cannot easily arrange private transport to reach bigger healthcare facilities.
“The PHC is catering to a large number of villages, so it cannot function effectively with inadequate staff. The authorities need to ensure that doctors and other essential staff are available round the clock,” he said.
Residents also highlighted the absence of a dedicated ambulance at the health centre, saying the facility is unable to provide timely transportation to patients who require referral to higher-level hospitals.
“An ambulance is not a luxury for a health centre serving so many villages. During an emergency, families have to arrange private vehicles, which wastes precious time and can also put an additional financial burden on them,” another resident said.
Locals said patients requiring specialised treatment are often referred to higher health institutions, making an ambulance service particularly important for safe and timely transportation.
Residents have now urged the Health Department to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the PHC’s manpower requirements and fill vacant positions on priority.
They have also demanded that a doctor be made available during night hours and that a dedicated ambulance be stationed at the health centre and emergency support available when they actually need it,” a resident said.
The residents appealed to the Chief Medical Officer and other concerned authorities to address the issue at the earliest and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services at the PHC. (KNO)