Nagaland’s Doctor-Patient Ratio Far Below WHO Standards, Highlights MLA Dr. Sukhato A Sema

Nagaland faces a significant healthcare crisis, with its doctor-to-patient ratio standing at 1:4056—far below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended standard of 1:1000. This alarming statistic, shared by MLA Dr. Sukhato A Sema at the Nagaland In-Service Doctors Association (NIDA) conference in Chumoukedima, underscores the critical shortage of medical professionals in the State. Based on Nagaland’s 2011 Census population of 19,79,000, the number of required doctors is 1,979. However, government healthcare facilities had only 390 doctors as of 2022.

Dr. Sema called for an immediate recruitment policy tailored to address this deficit. He also emphasized the need to meet public hospital staffing standards of 29 doctors per 100-bed capacity. The State currently has 81 empanelled hospitals, comprising 64 public and 17 private facilities. Dr. Sema urged NIDA to conduct detailed analyses of staffing needs across these institutions, covering not only doctors but also nurses and paramedical personnel.

The MLA highlighted the importance of providing essential facilities for healthcare workers, such as residential quarters for medical officers and support staff, especially in the State capital, Kohima. These improvements, he noted, are vital for ensuring workforce stability and motivation.

As a former Principal Director of Nagaland’s Health and Family Welfare Department, Dr. Sema reiterated NIDA’s vision of accessible and inclusive healthcare. He encouraged the association to focus on primary healthcare, adopting a comprehensive approach rooted in equity, inter-sectoral collaboration, and community participation.

Dr. Bernard Amer, the president of NIDA, emphasized the association’s commitment to fostering better public relations and enhancing its image to improve healthcare delivery. The conference concluded with the announcement of a new team of office-bearers for the 2024-26 term, aiming to tackle the ongoing healthcare challenges and drive positive changes in Nagaland’s medical system.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)