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Lone cardiologist’s transfer leaves GMC Baramulla without specialist care

Over the past two years, the presence of a dedicated cardiologist at GMC Baramulla had been a relief for thousands of patients
12:41 AM Jan 25, 2025 IST | ALTAF BABA
lone cardiologist’s transfer leaves gmc baramulla without specialist care
Lone cardiologist’s transfer leaves GMC Baramulla without specialist care--- Representational Photo
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Baramulla, Jan 24: For cardiac patients in north Kashmir, particularly in Baramulla district, the absence of a cardiologist at the Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla has plunged patients into a state of despair.

Over the past two years, the presence of a dedicated cardiologist at GMC Baramulla had been a relief for thousands of patients.

However, with the recent transfer of the lone cardiologist, patients now face mounting hardships, exacerbating an already dire situation. During the cardiologist’s tenure at GMC Baramulla, the facility saw significant advancements in cardiac care.

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A staggering 5,098 echocardiograms were conducted over two years—3,074 in 2023 alone and 2,306 in 2024. Additionally, around 40 pacemakers were successfully implanted, providing critical relief to patients with severe cardiac conditions.

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The availability of these services meant that cardiac patients from north Kashmir no longer had to undertake arduous journeys to Srinagar for routine check-ups and life-saving procedures. Now, the absence of a cardiologist has turned the clock back for patients, forcing them to travel to Srinagar for even the most basic cardiac consultations and follow-ups.

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This void has left countless individuals struggling, both physically and emotionally, as they grapple with the challenges of accessing healthcare far from home. Muhammad Akram, a resident of Baramulla and a cardiac patient, expressed his disappointment at the situation.

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“The presence of a cardiologist at GMC Baramulla was a blessing for the entire region. Before this, we had no choice but to visit hospitals in Srinagar for tests like echocardiograms or any heart-related assistance,” he said. “For two years, the hardship of cardiac patients eased significantly. But now, it feels like we are back to square one.”

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Ali Muhammad, another Baramulla resident, who suffers from cardiovascular disease, shared his personal ordeal. “Traveling to Srinagar for follow-up care is not only exhausting but extremely painful. For someone like me, who requires regular consultations, the absence of a cardiologist here is nothing short of a nightmare.”

The situation is even more challenging for patients who have undergone critical procedures, such as pacemaker installations.

Abdul Gaffar, a resident from Baramulla outskirts said, “In 2023, a dual-chamber pacemaker was implanted at GMC Baramulla. However, since the cardiologist was transferred, I have been unable to get regular follow-up check-ups. The long journey to Srinagar is both physically taxing and financially burdensome.”

The lack of specialised care in Baramulla has not only disrupted the lives of patients but has also placed additional strain on their families.

Many must take time off work or arrange expensive transportation to accompany their loved ones to Srinagar. For those with limited financial resources, this becomes a huge barrier to accessing essential healthcare.

Local residents and patients from north Kashmir has urged the authorities for immediate intervention. They have urged the authorities to appoint a permanent cardiologist at GMC Baramulla to alleviate the suffering of cardiac patients across the north Kashmir .

“The presence of a cardiologist here is extremely important. Cardiologist presence can ease the patients sufferings to a great extent," said a local resident.

When contacted Principal Government Medical College Baramulla, Dr Majid Jahangir said that the issue has been taken with the higher authorities.

"The issue had been communicated with the higher ups and we are hopeful that authorities will address it soon," he said.