Loisingha: Maternity and infant mortality rates seem to be peaking this year, with 34 infant deaths and one pregnant woman’s death being reported from here amid allegations of lack of healthcare facilities and absence of a paediatrician at Loisingha government hospital in Bolangir district.
The block witnessed a total of 34 infant deaths and one pregnant woman’s death in the current year, while the total number of mortalities in the district is expected to be much higher, according to reports. The reports reflect the abysmal state of infant and child health care in the block, say observers.
The lack of awareness and logistical support is the prime reason behind the high number of deaths, it is said. Meanwhile, questions are being raised on poor infrastructure and shortage of doctors and medical staff at the hospital.
The deaths were attributed to low birth weight, lack of pre and post-natal care and premature delivery. Despite the abysmal IMR, there is no single paediatrician at the hospital, it was alleged. Many bereaved family members rue that the system has failed them as the administration has been unable to provide them basic healthcare.
Losingha block comprises 20 panchayats with around 100 villages. However, there are only two community health centres at Kusang and Badimunda. A total of 906 newborns including 444 baby girls and 462 baby boys were born in the block this year. Similarly, 767 women were admitted to the CHCs for delivery, while the remaining 139 were admitted to the district headquarters hospital.
By November, the block witnessed 34 newborn deaths, with their ages ranging from 0-5 and one pregnant woman’s death. The woman was seven months pregnant, sources said. The absence of a paediatrician at the hospital has become a matter of worry for locals. When contacted, medical authorities said a paediatrician assigned to the hospital is on leave.
Locals demanded deputation of another paediatrician at the hospital. Locals also sought installment of an ultrasound machine.
Crores of rupees are being spent to ensure proper medical facilities but this is failing to translate into efficient health services at the grassroots level, say observers citing the example of the Mamata scheme – an initiative by the state government whereby pregnant women would be taken to hospitals for delivery by ambulances free of cost. This was done with an aim to promote institutionalised deliveries. However, lack of proper monitoring of ambulance service has left the scheme in disarray.
On the other hand, tribal women continue to prefer home deliveries either due to lack of awareness or due to lack of facilities at hospitals. At this rate, reducing IMR levels will prove to be tough, say locals. PNN
