Lack of specialist at PHC Dudi sparks public outcry in Machil

Kupwara, Mar 4: Amid public protests over the transfer of a specialist doctor from Primary Health Centre (PHC) Dudi in the Machil sector of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, Lolab MLA Qaiser Jamsheed Lone has intervened and assured residents that a replacement specialist will be posted shortly.

The specialist doctor was relieved from PHC Dudi following his selection for further studies at Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, raising concerns among residents about the availability of healthcare services in the remote border area.

Addressing the issue, Lone said he had taken serious note of the matter and raised it with the Health Minister to ensure that medical services in the region remain unaffected.

“There is nothing to worry about. I have taken serious note of the issue and raised it with the Health Minister, who has assured me that a specialist doctor will be posted within few days at PHC Dudi,” Lone said while speaking to Greater Kashmir.

The MLA appealed to the people of Machil to remain calm, assuring them that the well-being of residents in the border sector remains a priority for him.

He said that necessary steps were being taken to address the concerns raised by the public and ensure that healthcare facilities in the area are strengthened.

“Better healthcare services in Machil remain my top priority,” Lone said.

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Kupwara, Dr Zafar Akbar, said that basic healthcare services at PHC Dudi continue to function despite the transfer.

He said an MBBS doctor, along with two BUMS doctors, are already posted at the health centre and are performing their duties efficiently.

Dr Akbar added that medical staff currently posted at the facility are ensuring that patients receive essential healthcare services while efforts are underway to address the issue of specialist availability.