Urologist alleges equipment shortage at TVM Medical College, govt orders probe
Follow TNM's WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links. The Kerala Health Department has ordered a probe into allegations of an acute shortage of medical equipment at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, following concerns raised by Dr Haris Chirackal, a senior urologist and head of the Urology Department.On Saturday, June 28, Dr Haris took to Facebook to express his frustration over the alleged shortage of essential medical supplies in his department, stating that the situation was affecting timely and proper treatment for patients. Although the post was later deleted, Dr Haris reiterated his concerns in subsequent media interactions, standing by his claims.The health department has now constituted a four-member panel to investigate the matter. The probe comes amid growing public attention and support from within the medical community.Responding to the allegations, Director of Medical Education (DME) in-charge, Dr Vishwanathan, denied that any emergency procedures had been cancelled due to equipment shortages. He stated that all purchases are made based on the requirements listed by the respective department heads.However, the Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association (KGMCTA) has backed Dr Haris, alleging that similar issues persist across several government medical colleges in the state. “A comprehensive study should be undertaken to verify whether the funds allocated by the government are being properly utilised,” said Dr Rosenara Beegum, State President of the KGMCTA.In his original Facebook post, Dr Haris detailed the frustration and helplessness he felt after being forced to postpone a surgery due to a shortage of necessary equipment. “The patient whose surgery I had to postpone is the same age as my son. I’ve done everything possible to ensure patients get the best care, but I felt utterly dejected,” he wrote, adding that he was tired of running from pillar to post seeking funds and supplies. “I am not interested in a clash with the bureaucracy. Let my services be terminated,” the now-deleted post read.In a follow-up social media post, Dr Haris clarified that his only objective is to provide quality patient care, highlighting his deep commitment to the institution and its patients. “As the Head of the Department, I am fully immersed in my work. I do not go on tours or even attend family events because my patients come first. This is the institution I studied at, and if I cannot do justice to my patients, there is no point in continuing here,” he said. With IANS inputs

Follow TNM's WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
THE Kerala Health Department has ordered a probe into allegations of an acute shortage of medical equipment at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, following concerns raised by Dr Haris Chirackal, a senior urologist and head of the Urology Department.
On Saturday, June 28, Dr Haris took to Facebook to express his frustration over the alleged shortage of essential medical supplies in his department, stating that the situation was affecting timely and proper treatment for patients. Although the post was later deleted, Dr Haris reiterated his concerns in subsequent media interactions, standing by his claims.
The health department has now constituted a four-member panel to investigate the matter. The probe comes amid growing public attention and support from within the medical community.
Responding to the allegations, Director of Medical Education (DME) in-charge, Dr Vishwanathan, denied that any emergency procedures had been cancelled due to equipment shortages. He stated that all purchases are made based on the requirements listed by the respective department heads.
However, the Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association (KGMCTA) has backed Dr Haris, alleging that similar issues persist across several government medical colleges in the state. “A comprehensive study should be undertaken to verify whether the funds allocated by the government are being properly utilised,” said Dr Rosenara Beegum, State President of the KGMCTA.
In his original Facebook post, Dr Haris detailed the frustration and helplessness he felt after being forced to postpone a surgery due to a shortage of necessary equipment.
“The patient whose surgery I had to postpone is the same age as my son. I’ve done everything possible to ensure patients get the best care, but I felt utterly dejected,” he wrote, adding that he was tired of running from pillar to post seeking funds and supplies.
“I am not interested in a clash with the bureaucracy. Let my services be terminated,” the now-deleted post read.
In a follow-up social media post, Dr Haris clarified that his only objective is to provide quality patient care, highlighting his deep commitment to the institution and its patients.
“As the Head of the Department, I am fully immersed in my work. I do not go on tours or even attend family events because my patients come first. This is the institution I studied at, and if I cannot do justice to my patients, there is no point in continuing here,” he said.
With IANS inputs