Gastroenterology dept. at Ernakulam General Hospital likely to get OP facility
New medical gastroenterologist post expected to pave the way for OP services; Department has provided medical services to over 150 people since its launch; OP services could see daily patient visits rise to 100
The Gastroenterology department at Ernakulam General Hospital (GH) is on the verge of obtaining a regular outpatient (OP) facility, according to hospital sources. The development hinges on the creation of a new post for a medical gastroenterologist, which is currently awaited following a government order. Once the doctor is appointed, GH could initiate a basic outpatient service, offering medical services to the public beyond internal referrals.
Currently, the department relies solely on voluntary services from a doctor and private sponsorship. Superintendent Dr. Prebhudas R. mentioned that without an OP facility, GH is unable to accommodate patients from outside as all appointments are based on internal referrals. If the new doctor is posted, the department could potentially offer three OPs per week.
The department's offerings currently include colonoscopy, endoscopy, upper GI endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and related treatments. Hibi Eden, MP, emphasized the ongoing efforts to enhance patient care and extend gastroenterology services to the public, noting that the district currently lacks a public sector gastro department. The department, launched on a pilot basis earlier this year, has already treated over 150 individuals, with more than 40 patients receiving advice and treatment in August alone.
Dr. Paulose George, a retired senior consultant gastroenterologist overseeing the department, anticipates that once OP services commence, daily patient visits might surge to 100, indicating the potential impact of the upcoming facility.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
