The biggest state-run hospital, JJ hospital is facing an acute shortage of nephrologists.
Nephrologists are specialists who provide treatment related to normal kidney functioning, related problems and renal replacement therapy.
Currently, not a single specialised nephrologist is working in the nephrology department, due to which post-graduation students are handling patients, which in turn is putting tremendous pressure on them. It addition, it is also affecting the efficient treatment of patients.
One post-graduation doctor from the department said, “There is no permanent nephrologist in this department. We just have visiting faculty and resident medical officers are now handling it. The whole responsibility is shouldered by post-graduation students.”
“This has also put tremendous pressure on us. But what if there is any crisis, what will the hospital do ” he added.
This has also affected the treatment of patients. The hospital receives lot of patients, including prisoners suffering from renal failure also approach the hospital for dialysis. However, due to lack of specialists in the department, they have to wait longer for treatment.
As per guidelines, a qualified nephrologist, having a DM or DNB in nephrology or its equivalent degree shall be the head of the centre. “Kidney problem has become one of the most common health issues in the city so larger number of patients across the state are approaching the hospital for treatment. For better treatment, we need more qualified and specialist nephrologists,” said a nurse working in the department.
A dialysis service should consist of an efficient team of nephrologists, nurses, and certified haemodialysis technicians along with registered dieticians.
However, JJ Hospital dean Dr T.P. Lahane refuted the allegations and said, “We have two nephrologists in the department and proper care of the patients is being taken.”
