DIR LOWER: The residents of Lower Dir expressed disappointment and severely criticized the government and health department for not addressing the long-pending issues facing the district headquarters hospital, Temargara, where a large number of patients visit from the surrounding districts and far-flung areas.
In an exclusive interview with Pakhtun Digital, Medical Superintendent Dr. Bakht Shah Akhunzada highlighted several pressing issues impacting the hospital’s functioning. One of the most critical problems is the shortage of a clean and reliable water supply. Water is indispensable not only for patient care but also for maintaining hygiene standards and ensuring the smooth operation of various hospital departments. The current scarcity poses serious risks, including the potential spread of infections.
Another major concern is the acute shortage of medical staff. The hospital lacks sufficient numbers of doctors and paramedical workers to handle the daily influx of patients, which has increased due to the hospital’s service area encompassing multiple districts. This understaffing leads to longer waiting times for patients and places additional pressure on existing staff, affecting overall healthcare quality.
The unavailability of essential medicines is a further challenge. Many patients are unable to receive complete treatments due to stock shortages of critical drugs. This shortage not only delays recovery but can also result in worsening health conditions, especially for those with chronic or life-threatening illnesses.
Dr. Akhunzada said that these challenges require immediate attention from provincial and federal health authorities. He called for urgent measures to upgrade hospital infrastructure, ensure uninterrupted water supply, recruit more qualified doctors and paramedical staff, and maintain an adequate inventory of medicines.
The timely resolution of these issues is crucial, as the hospital continues to be the healthcare backbone for millions living in Lower Dir, Upper Dir, Chitral, and Bajaur. Without swift government intervention, the risk of healthcare collapse in the region remains high, endangering the well-being of countless patients.
The local asked to address the critical situation at Timergara District Headquarters Hospital and appeal for prompt action to restore and enhance healthcare services for the broader community.
Timergara District Headquarters Hospital, located in Lower Dir, stands as one of the busiest and most vital medical facilities in the region. It serves not only the local population of Lower Dir but also caters to millions from neighbouring districts such as Upper Dir, Chitral, and Bajaur.
For many residents across these areas, this hospital is the primary source of healthcare, providing essential services ranging from emergency care to routine treatments. Despite its crucial role, the hospital is currently facing significant operational challenges that threaten the quality and availability of healthcare for a vast population.
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