Queues grow longer as Noida district hospital battles staff crunch
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Most sought consultations for flu and fever cases or with gynaecologists, leading to long queues and jostling despite additional guards deployed by the administration.
"There were more than 1,800 patients at the women's ward OPD. It was a very hectic day for all of us. There is not enough staff and doctors to support this large number of patients. Moreover, doctors also have to visit inpatients," said a senior doctor at the hospital.
Officials said the facility has been grappling with a shortage of doctors and nurses for a long time. "The number of staff nurses and doctors is as per the earlier order when the hospital had 100 beds. Since Covid, the capacity has gone up to 240 beds, but the strength of doctors has remained the same. Although some are on contract, the hospital needs more permanent doctors," said an official.
Dr Ajay Rana, acting chief medical superintendent, said a requirement has been sent to the state health department.
"A demand for 17 more doctors has been sent. Additionally, two more ultrasound machines, one laparoscopy surgeon and equipment, and an MRI machine are also on the list of requirements," he said.
At present, the hospital has two functional USG machines, along with CT and X-Ray machines. MRI is not available.
According to senior officials, the hospital has 41 permanent doctors, against a requirement of at least 20 more to strengthen paediatrics, gynaecology, medicine, surgery and orthopaedics.
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There are also 20 vacancies for ward boys on contract. The hospital has 124 nurses, with 14 more positions vacant.
"The ideal doctor-to-patient ratio is considered 1:4 to 1:6. At the district hospital, the ratio is far lower. Doctors have to manage emergency, OPDs and inpatients across three shifts. While daytime is manageable, nights are a major challenge," said an official.
Officials also said that with the OPD shut on Aug 15 and 17 and operating for only half a day on Janmashtami, many patients had turned to emergency services, further straining resources.
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