PHAGWARA: After a gap of nearly two years, the 140-bedded Civil Hospital in Phagwara has started its blood bank, providing long-awaited relief to patients and their families who were earlier compelled to travel to Nawanshahr or Jalandhar to arrange blood. With the facility now operational, admitted patients will be able to receive blood free of cost, resulting in significant savings of time and money, particularly in emergency situations.
Hospital officials said the blood bank was made functional after completing all required formalities and approvals. To mark its launch, a blood donation camp was organised in which voluntary donors participated to help build an initial stock. Medical authorities stated that the availability of an in-house blood bank is expected to improve emergency response and treatment outcomes, especially for accident victims, pregnant women, and critically ill patients.
Despite this infrastructure improvement, the hospital continues to face an acute shortage of doctors, which remains a major concern. Official records show that out of 48 sanctioned posts for medical officers, only 19 are currently filled, leaving 29 posts vacant. The shortage has put considerable pressure on the existing medical staff and is adversely affecting healthcare delivery.
Posting position data indicates that several key departments are functioning with either a single doctor or none at all. Departments such as dental, ENT, anaesthesia, radiology, and other specialist services are among the worst affected. Doctors working at the hospital said the shortfall has led to increased workloads, frequent double shifts, and delays in services, particularly in emergency care.
Medical professionals noted that the impact of the shortage is most visible in the outpatient department (OPD), where patient footfall remains consistently high. Long waiting times have become common, while doctors are often required to manage OPD duties alongside emergency responsibilities. They warned that prolonged overwork not only causes fatigue but may also compromise the quality of patient care.