Chaibasa News: Kiriburu Government Hospital’s Doctor Shortage Results in Tragic Deaths of Two Kids

Kiriburu, Chaibasa, November 05, 2024: In a tragic incident highlighting severe healthcare deficiencies in Jharkhand, two children have died in Chhota Nagra due to the absence of doctors at the local government hospital. The lack of adequate medical services has sparked outrage among residents, who demand urgent reforms to the healthcare system in the region.

Incident Overview

The unfortunate deaths occurred within a span of two days. A four-year-old boy, Reyansh Hensda, from the Dharmragutu locality, succumbed to illness on November 3, while a three-year-old boy, Paikera Kerai, from the neighboring Jharbeda village, passed away on the evening of November 4. Both children were taken to the Kiriburu government hospital after experiencing fever, yet neither received the necessary medical attention due to a lack of doctors on site.

Eyewitness reports indicate that Reyansh Hensda was pronounced dead at the hospital, while Kerai died en route to the Manoharpur Community Health Center (CHC) after his family struggled to find transport. The absence of timely medical care has left both families devastated and the local community in shock.

Hospital’s Inadequate Resources

Residents of Chhota Nagra expressed their frustration over the lack of healthcare professionals at the Kiriburu government hospital. The facility has been without a full-time doctor for an extended period, relying solely on Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) to manage patient care. Despite their efforts, the ANMs are ill-equipped to handle serious medical emergencies.

Local villagers recounted their experiences, revealing that when the children were brought to the hospital, there was no doctor available to diagnose or treat them. Although the ANMs provided some medication, the children’s conditions deteriorated rapidly. Community members noted that the hospital lacks essential medications and facilities, often forcing patients to seek treatment from private providers at additional costs.

Ongoing Healthcare Crisis in Jharkhand

This incident is not an isolated case but rather a reflection of the broader healthcare crisis affecting the Chhota Nagra region. The government hospital, which should serve as a critical lifeline for the community, is often found lacking in basic resources and staff. Villagers reported that the hospital’s 20-bed facility remains underutilized due to the absence of regular medical staff, including doctors and emergency services.

Moreover, the region is classified as a malaria-prone zone, exacerbating the healthcare challenges faced by residents. Despite significant funds allocated to health initiatives from the District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) related to the nearby mining operations, the community continues to experience a dire shortage of medical services, clean drinking water and quality education.

Community Response and Demands

The deaths of Reyansh Hensda and Paikera Kerai have ignited a wave of anger among local residents, prompting them to demand immediate government intervention. They are calling for the appointment of qualified medical personnel at the Kiriburu government hospital and the establishment of adequate medical facilities to ensure that no other families have to endure such tragic losses.

As the healthcare situation remains critical, the residents of Chotanagara are urging local authorities and health officials to address these pressing issues and to implement a comprehensive plan to improve healthcare services in the region. The community’s plea for better health resources underscores the urgent need for systemic change within Jharkhand’s healthcare infrastructure.