Basti Dawakhanas in Rangareddy district, which are meant to provide medical services to the underprivileged, are being neglected. These dispensaries were set up to help patients with common illnesses but are struggling due to poor maintenance.
Out of the planned 81 Basti Dawakhanas, only 71 are operational in the district. They have medical staff like MBBS doctors and pharmacists, but lack basic infrastructure and maintenance. This has affected the services provided to patients.
The dispensaries are facing a shortage of supplies like brooms and phenol, and staff have had to rely on donations from patients and donors. Additionally, funds allocated for the past three years have not been paid, leading to difficulties for the staff in meeting their basic needs.
There are allegations of funds being diverted and attendance registers being falsified, calling into question the transparency and accountability of the healthcare system in these dispensaries. Many dispensaries are also lacking doctors, so staff nurses have taken on extra responsibilities like collecting blood samples and giving out medication.
Efforts to solve these issues are being hindered by bureaucratic obstacles and a lack of coordination between government departments. The situation highlights the urgent need for reforms and increased investment in healthcare infrastructure to ensure that everyone has access to medical services.
