John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, August 08: The residents of Little Andaman Island are currently grappling with challenges stemming from the absence of an ultrasound technician at PHC Hut Bay, raising concerns over essential medical services in the region.
Previously, an Ultrasound Operator was stationed in Little Andaman to operate the ultrasound machine. However, the lack of a permanent technician is now forcing residents to travel to Port Blair for ultrasound checkups. This is proving to be a significant hurdle, especially for pregnant mothers who find it difficult to travel due to limited ship availability.
“We have been asked to travel to Port Blair for ultrasound checkups. How can pregnant mothers manage such journeys, especially when ship tickets are in high demand and hard to secure?” said a resident.
Given the considerable population of Little Andaman, the residents are urging authorities to appoint a permanent ultrasound operator at PHC Hut Bay. Mr. M. Vasudevan Nair, Zilla Parishad Member of Hutbay, highlighted the situation, noting that patients are being compelled to travel to Port Blair, causing inconvenience and consuming precious time. He also mentioned that the PRI members of Little Andaman have been requesting an ultrasound doctor for PHC Hut Bay for several years, but their pleas have yet to be met by the Directorate of Health Service.
A senior officer from the Directorate of Health Services, when contacted by an Andaman Sheekha correspondent regarding the matter, explained that the ultrasound machine must be operated by trained doctors. He assured that steps have been taken to address the issue by appointing an ultrasound technician in Little Andaman. The necessary arrangements are in progress, and the technician is expected to arrive within the coming month.
