Lack of O2: Madurai PHC gasping for breath

DEPRIVED of medical oxygen supply for allegedly over eight months, the doctors at the primary health centre (PHC) in Thiruvathavur near Madurai city have been referring patients who require surgical procedures and pregnant women to other PHCs and far-away government hospitals.

- SARAVANAN M P @Madurai

The nurses of the PHC have recently written a letter in this regard to the health department, claiming that the medical oxygen cylinders at the healthcare facility have not been refilled in over eight months. They also mentioned that the oxygen concentrator -- device that separates nitrogen from air to supply 95% pure oxygen -- at the facility has been non-operational for more than two years. Meanwhile, district health officials, who acknowledged it as a serious issue, have ordered an inquiry into the matter.