Sambalpur: OPD Services Disrupted; Doctors Attending Patients for Only 2 Hours, Leaving Scores of Patients Unattended
Sambalpur: Samu Bagarti, a Dhaman resident, went to the District Headquarters Hospital in Sambalpur three days ago to see a specialist. After purchasing a ticket from the help desk, he joined the long queue. The doctor, however, left the room before his turn. He thought the doctor had stepped out for a moment, but even after 15 minutes, he had not returned. A security guard informed him that the doctor had already departed for the day and would not be returning. Samu was advised to return the following day if he still required a consultation.
This is a regular occurrence at the Sambalpur District Headquarters Hospital. Despite the fact that the official OPD hours are 8 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 6 PM, many doctors arrive late, around 10 AM, and leave after only two hours of seeing patients. Even with long lines, doctors abruptly end their consultations and leave. As a result, many patients, including those who travel long distances, are left without care.
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Patient Frustrations Mount
A patient from a nearby village, who has been making trips to Sambalpur DHH for two days, expressed his dissatisfaction, saying, “It’s been two days, and I still haven’t seen a doctor.” Traveling 20 kilometers for nothing is extremely painful. This situation needs to be resolved.”
Authorities Acknowledge the Issue
Dr. Sujatarani Mishra, the Chief District Medical Officer of Sambalpur, acknowledged these complaints and stated that she has also received reports of doctors leaving early despite long patient queues. Doctors have been advised to see all patients before departing, she added, but the shortage of specialist doctors remains a significant issue. In some departments, such as surgery and orthopedics, only one specialist is available, making it difficult to balance ward rounds and OPD duties. Dr. Mishra stated that they will issue notices to ensure that doctors do not leave their chambers while patients are still waiting.
