Madhya Pradesh: Short On Staff, Police Hospital Runs Only OPD In Bhopal

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Built to provide medical care to police personnel, the 50-bed hospital in the state capital is running like a dispensary. The hospital was inaugurated in November 2024. Six months on, it still has no facility to admit patients, running as it does with few doctors and paramedical staff.

The OPD Outpatient Department (OPD) works only during the day, with only consultation, diagnostic (testing), and minor treatment facilities available. The Inpatient Department is still not operational due to a lack of staff and resources.

The staff of 10 police units deployed in this area and their families are connected to this hospital. If someone is brought here in a critical condition, they are immediately referred to another hospital. 

The hospital was inaugurated with much fanfare and was supposed to cater to police personnel in Bhopal and from outside as well. Officials connected to the hospital claimed that with the help of the NHM, they are trying to get more paramedical staff. However, as per government rules, only PSC-selected candidates can become doctors here.

Only 16 of 46 posts filled

The number of approved posts in this hospital is 46, but only 16 staff members are running it. Currently, five doctors and a dentist are working here. Two of these doctors have been sent on deputation from the health department only two months ago. One of them is himself admitted in a private hospital for some treatment.

The paramedical staff comprises eight nurses, an eye assistant, and a lab technician. For cashier-cum-clerk and pharmacist posts, the police department has deployed its employees with a computer diploma and a pharmacy degree,respectively.

OPD time increased to 12 hours

Around 150 patients visit the hospital daily, which earlier provided treatment between 9 am and 5 pm. Failing to keep up with the patient numbers, the hospital has reached an agreement with eight visiting doctors who will work on contract, while it has increased its OPD timings this month.

Now, the OPD runs from 8 am to 8 pm. The welfare branch of the police has also approved the appointment of contractual staff for 17 new posts. Top police officials claim the burden on the hospital will be eased with the appointment of a medical expert, a gynaecologist, two medical officers, a matron, seven staff nurses, a lab technician, a pharmacist, two ward boys, and a dresser.