Pune: The Primary Health Sub-Center in Khalad, operating under the Belsar Primary Health Center, is facing a severe staffing crisis. None of the positions are filled, leaving the facility effectively non-operational. This alarming situation extends to other sub-centers in Shivri and Mawadi as well.
The local administration has been urged to address the issue promptly by appointing new staff, or face intense protests from villagers and the gram panchayat.
The sub-center in Khalad serves five villages: Khalad, Ekhatpur, Munjawadi, Khanwadi, and Kumbharvalan. Due to the staff shortage, critical services such as prenatal check-ups, immunizations for children, distribution of medications for blood pressure and diabetes, and outpatient care have been severely disrupted.
Over the past year and a half, all staff members, including community health officers, health workers, and part-time nurses, have been transferred without replacements, leaving the sub-center completely vacant.
The gram panchayat has repeatedly communicated with the medical officers of the Belsar Primary Health Center, Purandar Taluka, and the district health officer, but no positive response has been received. This lack of action has led to a complete breakdown of healthcare services in the area, causing widespread dissatisfaction among the residents.
Given the current outbreak of Zika and dengue fever in the region, including confirmed cases in Saswad and suspected cases in Khalad, the lack of healthcare staff is even more critical. Patients have had to seek treatment at private hospitals due to the absence of public health services.
Dr. Anuradha Borhade, Medical Officer at Belsar Primary Health Center, acknowledged the significant shortage of staff and the increased workload. She mentioned ongoing efforts to escalate the issue to higher authorities. Despite having good infrastructure, the absence of personnel for the past year and a half has rendered the sub-center non-functional, highlighting the urgent need for government intervention.
"If the government and local representatives do not address the staffing crisis and fill the vacant positions immediately, we will launch a major protest on behalf of all affected villages," warned Navnath Gaikwad, Shiv Sena office bearer of Belsar.
This situation calls for immediate and serious consideration from the authorities to ensure that the essential healthcare services are restored and maintained for the well-being of the local population.
