Kohistan’s health woes: 47 technicians absent from duty

Integrated Healthcare Services official says some of the paramedics are currently abroad.

KOHISTAN:

At least 47 health technicians, including several female employees of Kohistan health department, have been absent from duty for a long time, insiders familiar with the matter revealed on Tuesday.

According to a recent survey conducted by Integrated Healthcare Services (IHS), a non-governmental organisation working to improve health services in Kohistan, only 25 health technicians are performing their duties.

According to insiders, there are 72 health technicians for 42 basic health units (BHU) across Kohistan.

The survey revealed that 47 health technicians have been absent from their duties for a long time. According to details an official of IHS shared with the media, some of the paramedics are currently abroad.

Wasting away

The IHS survey has shed light on the abysmal state of the health infrastructure in Kohistan. Dental units of over 90% health facilities are out of order because of improper use and poor maintenance.

Parts of ultrasound machines in healthcare units in the district are also out of order, the survey revealed. This has deprived locals of adequate healthcare facilities.

Dr Khalil Bangash, an IHS official, insisted that the NGO has started replacing or repairing the machinery. It has also taken steps to introduce better gynaecological facilities for the women of Kohistan, he added.

According to Bangash, IHS has employed four women doctors. He added that some BHUs which were relocated during the 2005 earthquake have not been found on ground.

When contacted, Kohistan District Health Officer Dr Shafiullah was not available for comments.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 29^th, 2014.