Wrong Medication Allegedly Administered
A 17-year-old schoolgirl narrowly escaped a life-threatening medical error at Madhupur Primary Health Centre after she was allegedly given the wrong medication by the duty doctor. The incident has sparked serious concerns over patient safety and staffing shortages at the rural health facility.
Incident on January 31
The episode occurred on January 31 when the student, a resident of Kamalasagar Debipur, was admitted to the PHC with fever. According to reports, instead of the prescribed fever medicine, she was allegedly administered four tablets meant for a heart patient, leading to a sudden medical emergency.
Patient Loses Consciousness
Soon after taking the tablets, the girl reportedly lost consciousness, triggering panic inside the hospital premises. Her family members and attendants rushed to her aid as her condition deteriorated rapidly.
Referred to Tertiary Care Hospital
The patient was immediately referred to Tripura Medical College and Dr BR Ambedkar Teaching Hospital for advanced treatment. Doctors at the tertiary hospital later confirmed that timely emergency intervention helped save her life.
Protest and Vandalism Reported
Angered by the alleged negligence, relatives of the patient reportedly vandalised parts of the hospital property in protest. The incident drew widespread attention and prompted swift administrative action from the district health authorities.
Doctor Transferred After Inquiry
Following the uproar, the district health department initiated an investigation. Bishalgarh SDMO confirmed that negligence had occurred and that the wrong medicine was administered. As part of disciplinary measures, the duty doctor was transferred to Narsingarh Mental Health Hospital.
Questions Over Staff Accountability
While residents welcomed the transfer order, they questioned why the duty nurse who allegedly handed over the incorrect medication was not subjected to similar action. The incident has intensified scrutiny over accountability mechanisms within the health centre.
Staff Shortage Deepens Healthcare Crisis
The episode has also highlighted a severe shortage of medical personnel at Madhupur PHC. Currently, only one physician is reportedly handling patient care round-the-clock, while another senior doctor remains on leave. Residents of Kamalasagar constituency have urged the state health minister and chief minister to appoint at least two qualified doctors to ensure safe and reliable healthcare services.
