No ERCP at GMC Baramulla, patients forced to seek treatment in Srinagar

Baramulla, Dec 8: The absence of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography (ERCP) at Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla has left patients facing distress and financial strain, as many are compelled to travel to Srinagar or private hospitals to undergo this crucial procedure.

This gap persists despite the availability of two experienced gastroenterologists at the institution. Their expertise, however, remains underutilised due to the lack of a fully equipped endoscopy unit required to perform ERCP.

ERCP plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating bile duct stones, jaundice, pancreatic conditions, and serious infections such as acute cholangitis. The unavailability of the service has triggered growing concern among patients, particularly those from remote areas of Baramulla, Uri, Rafiabad, and Kupwara.

Mubashir Ahmad from Rafiabad recalled a recent ordeal when his wife required ERCP. “I could not get the procedure done at GMC Baramulla and had to take her to a private hospital in Srinagar, which cost me heavily,” he said.

Families say that for economically weaker households, managing expenses for the procedure in private facilities is nearly impossible. A relative of a jaundice patient described the situation as unfortunate. “Specialists are available here, but the facility isn’t functional. Patients continue to suffer,” he said.

Hospital sources confirmed that the administration has raised the matter with concerned authorities, but key requirements such as trained technicians, duodenoscopes, fluoroscopy support, cannulation tools and stents have not yet been procured.

A senior doctor said that the procedure could begin once the dedicated endoscopy unit is fully equipped and operational.

Principal GMC Baramulla, Prof. Dr Majid Jahangir, said the hospital is working toward initiating ERCP services. “Funds for ERCP equipment and digital X-ray support are likely to be released soon,” he said, expressing hope that the service will start in the near future.