Shortage of specialists, absence of MRI machine hamper Kullu RH
Kullu Regional Hospital (RH), serving residents of Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti and parts of Mandi and Chamba districts, is in urgent need of one radiologist and one pathologist. Currently, the hospital has only one radiologist, who has been providing regular services since April 2023. Despite having two ultrasound machines, patients often wait two-three months for scans or seek costly alternatives at private institutions. The hospital has faced a radiologist shortage since November 2021.
Kullu RH, which accommodates approximately 1,000 outpatient and 200-250 indoor patients daily, lacks an MRI machine, even as private institutions in the region offer this service. Medical Superintendent (MS) Dr Naresh Chand noted that out of 37 sanctioned medical officer posts, 36 are filled, while all 49 nurse positions are occupied. Basic specialties such as surgery, medicine, orthopaedics and gynecology are available, along with chemotherapy services.
Dr Chand highlighted the hospital’s infrastructure advancements during the COVID-19 outbreak, including a 200-bed Dedicated COVID Health Centre with central oxygen supply. The facility is equipped with two oxygen plants and 550 oxygen cylinders. Cleanliness, maintenance, and biomedical waste disposal are well-managed. Kullu RH has won the ‘Kayakalp’ national award for excellence in healthcare services in 2018 and 2022.
Senior resident Dr Satpal credited former Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Sushil Chander for expanding Kullu RH from a 100-bed to a 300-bed hospital. Corporates supported the construction of new buildings, including a Maternal and Child Health (MCH) wing with 100 beds. The sanctioned medical specialist positions are expected to increase proportionately.
Current CMO Dr Nag Raj Panwar reported the addition of modern equipment and a new administrative block. During the recent Dasehra festival, the Chief Minister announced plans to deploy adequate staff for the MCH section and to appoint specialists and nurses in model health institutions as per international standards.
Despite these advancements, residents highlight persistent issues. Atul from Bhuntar criticised inadequate parking facilities, stating that attendants are forced to park on roads, risking police fines. A parking area near the hospital was converted into a market by the Kullu Municipal Council, while private parking charges an exorbitant Rs 400 per day.
Munish from Kullu pointed out overcrowding issues, with patients sometimes setting up cots in hospital corridors. He emphasized the need for increased bedding capacity to handle the patient load. He also mentioned ongoing discussions about establishing a medical college in Kullu, which could improve healthcare infrastructure and services.
