Conflict Arises Over Operating Theater Usage at GMC Anantnag

Sameer Ahmad

Anantnag: Tensions have emerged between two major health departments at GMC Anantnag, as the orthopedic department reportedly denied the cardiologist department access to its operation theater for patient procedures.

GMC Anantnag officially announced the successful completion of dual chamber Pacemaker implantation surgeries by the Department of Medicine, marking a significant medical milestone in south Kashmir. However, the procedures reportedly took place in the orthopedic theater, causing friction between the two departments.

While the surgeries were accomplished without hindrance, sources suggest that the clash between the departments has impacted patient care at GMC Anantnag.

The Head of the Orthopedic Department emphasized that the theater was primarily designated for orthopedic patients and voiced concerns over shared usage with the cardiologist department. With a significant influx of orthopedic cases, he highlighted the necessity of a dedicated operation theater for each department to provide optimal care.

The Superintendent of GMC Anantnag, Malik Aubid, clarified that the issue arose from a miscommunication regarding theater usage. He explained that the conflict stemmed from a surgical table placed temporarily in the orthopedic theater, which led to concerns from the cardiology section. The matter, however, was resolved amicably. The orthopedic department was assured that the theater would be used exclusively for a limited period of time until the cardiology department establishes its own facility, including a cath lab.

He added that we must distinguish between what is urgent and what is important, especially when considering the critical needs of cardiology patients, particularly those requiring pacemakers. We cannot risk subjecting them to prolonged waiting and suffering. Hence, a mutual decision was reached to temporarily utilize the orthopedic department’s theater to address this pressing requirement.