The 200-bed Civil Hospital in Nurpur, Himachal Pradesh, has lost a third specialist doctor within a month, severely impacting specialty healthcare services in the border region. The pathologist joined the Government Medical College, Nahan, as a senior resident this week, following the earlier departure of a dermatologist transferred to another hospital in Kangra district and an ophthalmologist who moved to the same Nahan institution.
Doctor Exodus Deepens Staff Shortage
Medical Superintendent Dr Anupama Sharma confirmed that three specialist doctors left in June 2026. The hospital now operates with 17 doctors, including 10 specialists, against a sanctioned strength of 34 posts. The current specialists include two physicians, two anaesthetists, one general surgeon, one orthopaedician, and specialists in gynaecology, ENT, forensic medicine, and microbiology.
Long-standing vacancies remain in paediatrics and radiology, further limiting care. Residents note that specialists are posted only briefly before moving on, forcing patients to travel elsewhere for specialized treatment.
Political and Community Reactions
Former minister and ex-MLA Rakesh Pathania, who upgraded the hospital from 100 to 200 beds in 2018, criticized the current administration for failing to fill vacant posts. He stated that the hospital has been neglected for the past three-and-a-half years despite its importance to the border region. Akil Bakshi, Director of the RB Jan Kalyan Foundation, a local NGO, expressed concern over declining services and noted that local MLA Ranbir Singh Nikka, who had promised a medical college in Nurpur during his election campaign, has remained silent as specialist services deteriorate.
Impact on Patient Care
The back-to-back departures have sparked concern among patients and residents, many of whom now face long journeys for dermatology, ophthalmology, and pathology services. The hospital, situated near the interstate border, serves a large population that relies on its specialty care.
