the goan I network
MAPUSA
With the lockdown extended by two more weeks and the prospects of heat wave hitting Goa, things are going to get worse for patients lining up for outpatient department (OPD) at the North Goa District Hospital in Mapusa.
People queue up as early as 8 in the morning for checkup although the district hospital staff walks in only after 9.30 am.
Unfortunately, people coming for examination are made to stand in the hot sun outside the hospital for hours until their turn comes.
“It is utter chaos at the Asilo as people are made to stand in the blazing sun. At least two people fainted while awaiting their turn,” said Florence Mendes, a senior citizen from Moira who visited the hospital on Thursday.
“After standing in the queue for hours, we are told the particular doctor is not available. Can’t the authorities disseminate proper info to public,”
she added.
On account of the coronavirus crisis, the OPD was shifted outside the premises of Asilo.
All patients visiting the district hospital are first screened outside the hospital and accordingly, slotted for further consultancy.
Incidentally, since the State government has issued a warning about possible heat wave in Goa from May 8 to 14, people queuing up for the OPD are in for the worse.
Medical Superintendent Dr Mohandas Pednekar acknowledged the difficulty, but appeared helpless in the situation.
“We are aware of the problem faced by the people who queue up outside the hospital. We are waiting for any new directions after May 4 when the lockdown is expected to be lifted,” Dr Pednekar said.
He informed that the hospital was following laid down procedures on account of the COVID-19 crisis and as a precautionary measure the patients were screened outside the hospital.
