The court noted that while Punjab has 23 districts, state data reveals that MRI machines are available in only six of them.

17 Districts Left Behind: HC Questions Safety of Patients in Punjab’s ICU-Less Districts

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has demanded a state-wide report on ICU availability after the finding that the Malerkotla District Hospital operates without one, a situation it described as 'shocking'. Moving beyond junior-level filings, the Bench mandated that the next comprehensive affidavit must come directly from the Health Secretary."

According to the report, a bench headed by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu expressed deep concern over the "dismal picture" of public healthcare during the hearing of a PIL filed by Bhisham Kinger. The court noted that while Punjab has 23 districts, state data reveals that MRI machines are available in only six of them. 

The Bench questioned the state's decision to outsource CT scan and MRI services to private laboratories, asserting that providing basic healthcare is a "sovereign function" of the state.

The Court was also critical of the "compliance affidavits" filed previously, noting they were submitted by officers too junior to repose responsibility upon. Consequently, the High Court has mandated that the Health Secretary personally file the next report. 

The state must now explain why essential diagnostic infrastructure, such as CT scan and MRI machines, should not be made mandatory for every district hospital to cater to emergency and referral cases. The matter has been adjourned for further scrutiny of the state's public healthcare infrastructure.

Source: The Tribune