Urgent Concerns: Centre’s Fund Shift Jeopardizes Haemophilia Care at KEM Hospital, Mumbai
A shift in funding policy by the central government has left KEM Hospital in Mumbai struggling to provide essential haemophilia treatments. Previously backed by central funds, the hospital is now ineligible for support since allocations have been redirected to government-run district hospitals. This decision has significantly impacted KEM Hospital, a primary haemophilia treatment facility not only for Mumbai but for the entire state of Maharashtra. The hospital is forced to ration its limited supplies, compelling patients to seek costly private care.
The haemophilia patient community is deeply affected, with approximately 950 registered individuals in Mumbai alone facing severe treatment shortages. Haemophilia, a genetic disorder affecting blood clotting, requires regular administration of clotting factors to prevent dangerous bleeding episodes. The policy shift has resulted in rationed treatments, increasing risks of complications like internal bleeding and joint deformities, and leaving many patients vulnerable, especially those with critical conditions such as brain bleeds.
State health officials have urgently appealed to the Union Health Ministry to restore funding for KEM Hospital, highlighting the critical role of the medical college in treating haemophilia. Dr. Mahendra Kendre from the Maharashtra Directorate of Health Services noted the challenges posed by the funding reallocation, emphasizing the impact on consistent care delivery.
While JJ Hospital in Mumbai qualifies for the new funding, it lacks the specialized infrastructure available at KEM, further complicating patient care. The Haemophilia Society of Maharashtra has issued strong calls for government intervention, urging the restoration of resources to KEM Hospital to ensure uninterrupted patient care. In a letter to the ministry, the society stressed the urgency of the situation and questioned the wisdom of diverting funds away from established treatment centers like KEM.
As supplies from the Haemophilia Federation dwindle, the need for a long-term solution becomes increasingly urgent, highlighting the potential consequences for thousands of patients relying on KEM Hospital.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/centre-funds-district-hospitals-kem-hospital-haemophilia-treatment-9712199/
Category : Cities,Mumbai
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Publish Date: 2024-12-07 20:40:00
