Kottayam: A recent report from the Director of Health Services reveals a severe shortage of ambulance facilities in various government hospitals across the state. According to the report, 615 government hospitals are currently operating without ambulances. This deficiency spans from primary health centres to district, general, and Taluk hospitals.
The district-wise breakdown of government hospitals functioning without ambulance services is alarming, with Ernakulam district topping the list with 79 establishments lacking this essential service. Other significantly affected districts include Thrissur and Palakkad, both reporting 78 hospitals without ambulances. In Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta, 21, 31, and 20 hospitals respectively, Malappuram 40, Kozhikode 42, Wayanad 23, Kannur 42, Kasaragod 43, Alappuzha 70, Kottayam 27, Idukki 21, and Thrissur 78 are grappling with the absence of ambulance support.
Numerous ambulances are currently under repair, facing financial constraints to get the maintenance done. The report recommends that hospitals functioning without ambulances should acquire one promptly. Additionally, the report advocates for the mandatory provision of ambulance facilities in isolated areas.
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