GMC Anantnag’s TMT machine remains non-operational for want of space

Anantnag, Jan 1: Patients at the Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, particularly those vulnerable to heart attacks, are unable to undergo critical evaluations as the Treadmill Test (TMT) machine has been lying idle.

The TMT machine, which was earlier placed in the Echo section, was removed two months ago due to inadequate space, leaving patients reliant on private facilities for the test.

“There is no space to keep the machine, forcing patients in need of this vital evaluation to seek private setups,” a medic said. He explained the importance of coronary angiography in diagnosing myocardial infarction (MI).

“Without a functioning TMT machine, there is a higher likelihood of missing critical diagnoses. If chest pain is linked to cardiac issues, a TMT can detect it early,” a medic said. He said the absence of a functional TMT machine continues to compromise the timely evaluation and management of cardiac conditions.

Outgoing Medical Superintendent (MS) of GMC Anantnag, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, cited technical issues as the reason for the machine's inactivity. However, technical staff clarified that the primary issue is the lack of space to house the equipment.

A cardiologist emphasised upon the importance of primary interventions to prevent heart attacks. “Unfortunately, due to resource constraints, our focus remains on secondary interventions, where we treat patients only after they reach the hospital,” he said.