Indo-Pak conflict exposes healthcare gaps in border areas

Jaipur: The Indo-Pak conflict exposed the fragile healthcare facilities in districts close to the international border. However, the conflict was a blessing in disguise for the residents of Jaisalmer, as the health department filled the vacant posts of doctors and paramedical staff in the district within just a week.Keeping in mind the emergency situation due to the conflict, and considering it was one of the most vulnerable districts, the state govt took immediate measures to ensure proper healthcare facilities. Taking it seriously, the health department filled the vacant posts in Jaisalmer district, which was highly sensitive during the conflict.The state govt made postings of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and community health officers in significant numbers over the past few days amid the Indo-Pak conflict. "Under the emergency plan, the health department appointed 35 doctors for Jaisalmer, including 26 who were awaiting posting orders for some time, while nine doctors are senior resident doctors," said Dr Rajendra Paliwal, chief medical health officer (Jaisalmer). Despite the posting of 35 doctors, the posts of doctors are still vacant in the district, especially specialist doctors in community health centres (CHC). Dr Paliwal expressed hope that Jaisalmer would soon get more specialist doctors for the vacant posts.In the district, 31 posts of pharmacists were vacant, which have now been filled. On Wednesday, the health department gave postings to 31 pharmacists in Jaisalmer. The state govt also filled the vacant posts of community health officers (CHOs). There were 161 CHO posts vacant, and all have been filled in the last week.The district has 32 primary health centres, 10 community health centres, two district hospitals, and 10 Janta clinics. Dr Paliwal said, "Though the district had a shortage of doctors, there is not a single hospital, CHC, or PHC without the posting of a doctor." He added, "The health minister is focusing on the district, keeping in mind its difficult geographical location."In the last week, Jaisalmer received 27-28 nurses, but still, 20-25 nurse posts remain vacant. Since the district is situated deep within the Thar Desert, with the population residing at long distances, it is one of the most challenging districts for ensuring healthcare facilities. Jaisalmer has never been an attractive place for doctors or other healthcare staff for posting due to its difficult working conditions.