The Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Pebbair, Wanaparthy district, has been without a doctor for nearly six months. This unusual situation has turned the health centre into more of a ‘sick centre.’ Village doctors are available, but they are limited to working at sub-centres.
The situation worsens with the monsoon season bringing more illnesses. The absence of staff nurses and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) has made it difficult for patients to get the care they need. Previously, Dr. Rakesh Reddy from Panagal PHC was assigned to this centre but was later transferred to Kadukuntla PHC, leaving the hospital in disarray.
Despite government promises to upgrade public hospitals, the reality is far from satisfactory. This is especially concerning as monsoon-related diseases could spread to nearby areas.
The health centre, which has six beds, is in poor condition. It was supposed to be expanded to 30 beds by the previous Congress government. However, the buildings are now dilapidated, with leaking roofs and walls. Staff working night shifts are worried about their safety. Locals question why there are no doctors despite the presence of other staff members.
The previous BRS government started new construction and allocated funds for the project. However, elections and a change in government halted the progress, leaving the health centre neglected.
Residents are now requesting that two doctors be appointed to the Pebbair Primary Health Centre. They are also urging Wanaparthy MLA Thudi Megha Reddy and State Planning Commission Vice-Chairman Dr. G. Chinnareddy to take special interest in the hospital. They emphasize that a hospital on a national highway should not be overlooked.
