Imphal: The 2nd All Tangkhul Medicos Association (ATMA) Medical Conference 2024 commenced on Saturday at Hotel Yaiphabaa, Imphal, under the theme “Bridging the Gap in Modern Healthcare.” Dr. I.K. Muivah (IPS), IG Operations Manipur, graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest.
The conference featured scientific sessions on various topics on its first day, with special sessions focusing on the healthcare infrastructure in Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, presented by the respective Chief Medical Officers.
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The 100-bed Ukhrul District Hospital is currently operating with only 18 medical officers, against a sanctioned strength of 47, and just 7 specialists out of 27 sanctioned posts. The nursing staff includes only 15 members, although 40 posts are sanctioned. Overall, Ukhrul District Hospital, which should have 176 staff members, currently operates with just 77. Across Ukhrul district, only 258 medical staff are serving, as opposed to the sanctioned 503 positions.
Despite being understaffed, the district hospital, community health centers, and primary health centers in Ukhrul continue to operate to their full capacity.
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In Kamjong District, the healthcare situation is reported to be even more challenging. Out of 38 sanctioned posts, only 12 doctors are available, and just 6 nurses are in service despite 14 sanctioned positions. Among the 19 Primary Health Subcenters (PHSCs) in the district, 13 lack buildings or are unusable. Although the Kamjong CHC was upgraded to a District Hospital in November 2017, infrastructure improvements have yet to be realized, leaving only one specialist available.
The two-day ATMA Medical Conference is scheduled to conclude on November 10, 2024.
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