Tanda Medical college receives notice over staff shortages in Blood Bank

Dharamshala: The Himachal Drug Licensing Authority of blood banks has served a notice to Dr. Rajendera Prasad Medical College(RPGMC), Tanda in Kangra District regarding trained staff shortage in the blood bank of the hospital. Known to be the largest blood bank of the lower regions in the state, it serves other private and charitable health institutions as well. The affiliated hospital facing staff shortages has yet to make fresh appointments.

The notice served by the drug controller's district headquarters mentions the hospital authorities to have transferred staff without giving any intimation to the licensing authority. "It is stated that any change in the blood bank staff endorsed in the license has to be brought to the knowledge of licensing authority, HP and Drugs Controller General of India, within 15 days" the notice issued in the Ist week of this month stated.

It further added that if the hospital failed to do so, then action will be initiated under the Drugs and Cosmetic Act 1940. "Trained staff in blood bank should not be shifted and appointments should be made as per the workload here," it revealed.

Inquires confirmed staff shortage in the hospital. Of the 479 sanctioned nursing posts, 346 are presently filled, said sources to the TOI. There are 37 posts of lab technicians with a mere10 on the job. Similarly, the clerical staff has only 24 employed, against the sanctioned 64.

Dr Ramesh Bharti, Principal while admitting to shortages claimed that new appointments were underway.

"There is a shortage of staff in the hospital. But things are underway and the authorities concerned are working over it to fill vacant posts in the hospital. We have other units also coming up on the premises related to mental health, child, and Mothercare. A bone bank and a skill lab is also being added to this hospital and so the posts will be filled at the earliest," Bharti told the daily.