Urban Primary Health Center runs out of basic medicine in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: Patients requiring treatment and drugs for common health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes or even fever are being turned away from the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) at Anjanappa Garden in Ward 138 of Chamarajpet Assembly constituency due to a shortage of basic medical supplies.

The local residents claimed that the government authorities were not supplying the necessary medicines to the primary health centre on time. For the last five months, poor people have suffered because the PHC has run out of basic medicines for diabetes, BP and fever. The issue was brought to the attention of the authorities on several occasions, but there has been no positive response.

Akhila, who struggled without getting medicine.

“I came for my baby’s treatment, but even basic medicines for children are not available. Many BP and sugar patients come here, but the staff say medicines are not available and they are awaiting stocks. This has been going on for the past four to five months. I request the government to ensure adequate stocks of essential drugs”, said Akhila, who struggled to find the required drugs for her child.

“Three to four days ago, the locals had a meeting with the doctors and staff of the health centre. When they were asked about basic medical supplies, the staff said they have informed the government officials. The doctor works at three PHCs and people are facing a lot of problems”, said Sampath, a social worker.