Berhampur: Parents of thalassemia patients have urged MKCG Medical College and Hospital to establish a permanent 20-bed ward exclusively for blood transfusion treatments. On Tuesday, they submitted a memorandum highlighting the challenges faced due to the absence of a dedicated facility.
Currently, the hospital operates a temporary eight-bed ward near the outpatient department (OPD) until 5 PM, with services continuing near the emergency ward afterwards. "We are considering increasing the number of beds to meet patient demands," said hospital superintendent Suchitra Dash.
However, parents argue that a temporary setup is insufficient. "Patients are forced to move between departments," said Surya Narayan Rath, Ganjam district coordinator of the Thalassemia and Sickle-cell Society, Odisha. He added that children under 14 are directed to the pediatric ward, while older patients must visit the casualty department for transfusions, causing unnecessary hardship.
Ramaath Satapathy, a concerned parent, highlighted the strain caused by these movements, while others pointed out lapses in adhering to National Health Mission (NHM) guidelines. They said that pre-transfusion haemoglobin levels, meant to be maintained between 9.5 and 10.5 mg/dl, are often neglected.
Currently, the hospital's blood bank caters to about 1,000 patients monthly from districts across southern Odisha, including Nayagarh, Khurda, and Puri, offering free blood to those suffering from thalassemia and sickle cell disease.