Orthopaedic equipment shortage hits hospital

Hundreds of patients with Mukhya Mantri Himachal Health Care Scheme (HIMCARE) and Ayushman cards are facing difficulties in accessing essential orthopaedic equipment, such as implants, rods and plates, at Kheneri Hospital. Despite having these cards, patients are being forced to purchase the required items at high prices from private vendors.

Dr Ajay Negi, the hospital’s medical superintendent, has assured that a tender will soon be issued to address this issue. Previously, orthopaedic patients could obtain these items through the Jan Aushadhi Kendra at the hospital, but a recent ban on selling these items has created the current crisis.

Around 200 orthopaedic patients visit Kheneri Hospital daily, but due to the unavailability of necessary equipment, they are now forced to rely on private centres. This situation has led to a significant financial burden for those requiring treatments for bone diseases, such as joint replacements and spinal transplants.

The Himcare scheme, launched in 2019, offers cashless treatment coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year at empanelled hospitals. However, the lack of essential orthopaedic equipment has made this scheme ineffective for many patients in need of such treatment.