Baramulla, March 3 – The Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla is grappling with a severe shortage of specialist doctors, particularly cardiologists and nephrologists, leaving patients across north Kashmir in distress. The absence of these crucial specialists has forced many patients to seek emergency care in Srinagar, resulting in delays and heightened health risks.
For nearly three months, GMC Baramulla has been functioning without a cardiologist, a critical gap in healthcare services. Previously, a DM in Cardiology from the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, was handling cardiac cases at the hospital. However, following his appointment as an Assistant Professor at GMC Udhampur, no replacement has been provided, leaving the hospital unequipped to manage cardiac emergencies.
Patients Forced to Travel to Srinagar
Local residents have voiced their concerns over the dire situation. “People from all over north Kashmir rush to GMC Baramulla during emergencies, but due to the non-availability of specialists, they have no choice but to take their loved ones to Srinagar,” said Waseem Ahmad, a local resident. He recounted a recent incident where a patient suffering from a suspected cardiac arrest was brought to GMC Baramulla, only to be referred to Srinagar due to the lack of a specialist.
Doctors emphasize that in cases of cardiac emergencies, every second counts. “Timely intervention is critical. A delay in treatment can be fatal, and unfortunately, we are unable to provide immediate care due to the absence of a cardiologist,” a doctor at GMC Baramulla explained.
Adding to the crisis, follow-up treatment for patients who previously underwent pacemaker implants under the former cardiologist has also been disrupted. Additionally, patients requiring specialist clearance for other medical procedures face unnecessary delays, further complicating healthcare delivery.
Nephrology Services Also in Crisis
The situation is no better for patients in need of nephrology care. While GMC Baramulla offers dialysis services at an eight-bed facility, the absence of a nephrologist has made it difficult for patients to receive expert consultations. Many are left with no option but to travel to Srinagar for nephrology-related medical advice.
Authorities Acknowledge the Issue, but No Action Yet
Dr. Pervaiz Masoodi, Medical Superintendent of the Associated Hospital GMC Baramulla, confirmed that he has raised the issue with higher authorities. Meanwhile, officials from the Health & Medical Education (H&ME) Department claim they are working on a plan to address the shortage of specialists at the hospital. However, with no concrete action taken so far, patients continue to suffer.
Healthcare professionals stress that appointing at least one cardiologist and nephrologist is an urgent necessity. Without immediate intervention, the growing number of referrals to tertiary care hospitals in Srinagar will not only burden those facilities but also increase risks for critically ill patients who require prompt medical attention.
As the crisis continues, residents of north Kashmir are left hoping that the government will act swiftly to restore essential specialist services at GMC Baramulla, ensuring that timely and life-saving care is available close to home.
