April 7, 2026”observed globally as World Health Day”ironically exposed a troubling lapse in our public healthcare system in Goa. A patient scheduled for a CT scan at a government hospital had their appointment abruptly cancelled due to a machine breakdown, resulting in wasted travel expenses of nearly Rs1,500. This is not an isolated inconvenience but a recurring issue. The CT scan machine in question reportedly handles around 60 patients daily, making frequent breakdowns inevitable. In such circumstances, why has the government not installed additional machines? While emergency cases may be diverted to Goa Medical College, outpatients are left stranded without alternatives. Budgetary limitations cannot justify such neglect, especially when substantial funds are allocated to healthcare. Essential diagnostic services must be reliable and accessible at all times. This incident has understandably sparked public outrage. A functional CT scan facility is not a luxury but a necessity. The government must act decisively to prevent such failures and ensure that public trust in healthcare services is not eroded.
