Cardiology services at Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College (RPGMC) in Tanda, Palampur, are set to return to normalcy following the appointment of three cardiology specialists. The move is expected to bring significant relief to heart patients from Kangra and other surrounding districts in Himachal Pradesh.
New Specialists Join Department
Principal Dr Milap Sharma announced on Sunday that the addition of three cardiologists would greatly enhance patient care and restore the regular functioning of the Cardiology Department. The department had been experiencing disruptions in recent weeks due to a shortage of specialists, leading to difficulties for patients seeking cardiac consultations, investigations, and treatment.
Dr Soni Kumar and Dr LN Lakhan joined the institution two days ago, while senior cardiologist Dr Naresh Rana, who was previously transferred from Tanda, has also returned and is currently attending to patients at the Out-Patient Department (OPD). The new specialists reviewed departmental operations and engaged with doctors and patients during their visit.
Context of Ongoing Inquiry
This development occurs alongside a separate medical inquiry into alleged irregularities regarding the use and implantation of cardiac stents and balloons within the department. A team of senior doctors has been investigating various aspects of the department's functioning following complaints and concerns about certain procedures.
Recently, a team of senior doctors reportedly seized cardiac stents and balloons valued at approximately one crore rupees that were allegedly stored without authorization in a cupboard within the department. The matter has been referred to the Himachal Pradesh Government for further investigation. The inspection followed directives from the state government amid concerns about irregularities in the Cardiology Department.
Relief for Regional Patients
The restoration of specialist services is anticipated to provide major relief to hundreds of cardiac patients who visit the medical college and hospital from Kangra and neighboring districts, including Mandi, Kullu, Chamba, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, and Lahaul-Spiti. RPGMC remains one of the few government medical colleges in Himachal Pradesh equipped with a cardiac catheterisation laboratory (Cath Lab), making it a key referral center for advanced cardiac treatment in the state.
Hospital authorities have assured patients that all necessary measures are being taken to strengthen services and maintain transparency in the department while ensuring that cardiac care remains unaffected.
