Lack of Hygiene, Delays, and Neglect Continue to Plague Public Hospital
Nagpur: Patients at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), one of Asia’s largest public hospitals, are suffering due to long wait times, unhygienic conditions, and administrative apathy. Many economically disadvantaged patients struggle to receive even basic medical care, often being turned away due to their inability to pay for essential tests.
Ved Tardeja, a patient transferred from Amravati for severe stomach issues, spent his last ₹90 on an X-ray only to be told he needed a sonography before admission. Unable to afford the procedure, he was left unattended and forced to sleep on a bench. The next morning, when he returned, he was dismissed again for not completing the test. Even after seeking refuge in the men’s ward, he was rudely told to leave without any assistance from hospital staff.
Expectant Mothers and Poor Patients Bear the Brunt
A pregnant woman from a low-income background arrived at GMCH at 8 AM for a sonography but had to wait until 2:30 PM for the procedure. Like her, many expectant mothers dependent on public healthcare endure excessive delays. Adding to their ordeal, locked and unhygienic toilets further compromise their dignity and health.
Patients are often denied critical services due to their inability to pay nominal fees. One patient was refused radiology services for not having ₹120, only receiving care after intervention. During a visit, it was found that two ward washrooms were locked, while the only available one was in a filthy state, making it almost unusable. Basic hygiene amenities, such as sanitary pad vending machines, were also absent.
Authorities Step In, But Systemic Issues Persist
After being informed of the hospital’s failings, Medical Superintendent Dr. Avinash Gawande intervened to ensure Tardeja’s sonography was completed and ordered inspections to unlock the closed washrooms. “Regular inspections and strict enforcement of hygiene and patient care standards are necessary to ensure GMC provides quality healthcare services,” he stated.
Despite its reputation as a premier government hospital, GMCH continues to neglect its most vulnerable patients. Without urgent systemic reforms, it remains a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis in public healthcare.
