The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has raised an issue on Chhattisgarh's healthcare system, which involves a severe shortage of medical healthcare professionals and also alleged irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment and drugs close to Rs 96.79 crores.
The audit report for the years 2016-2022 was presented on Friday, the final day of the assembly session
According to the reports as of March 2022, there is an overall 34% shortage in manpower in healthcare sectors and a 33% shortage of doctors. This percentage was worse in Naxal-affected districts like Sukuma ( 58.67%), Bijapur (68.18%), Kondagaon (60.66 %), and over 50% in 9 districts.
172 community health centers had a shortage of specialist doctors (72%) and general doctors (15%).
The report also highlighted that in March 2022, 103 essential drugs were not available at seven district hospitals. Additionally, during the pandemic, items worth Rs 23.23 crore were purchased without the recommendation of the Covid committee.
The CAG has recommended that the government develop a comprehensive human resource policy for the healthcare sector in accordance with IPHS. This policy should aim to ensure the availability of a sufficient number of qualified professionals like staff nurses, specialist doctors, paramedical staff, etc. to meet the public health needs of the population.
(Input from various media sources)
(Rehash/Gayatri Prakasan/MSM)