Cuttack: Drug distribution counters (DDCs) operating under ‘Niramaya’ scheme at SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCBMCH) in Cuttack are not providing medicines that are vital for treatment of diabetes for the past two months, a source said Thursday.
According to the source, there are two Niramaya DDCs at SCBMCH. However, diabetes medicines are not available there.
On occasion of ‘World Diabetes Day’, SCBMCH officials Tuesday took out a march to raise awareness about taking food and medicines on time, while more than 200 patients were allegedly denied medicines at DDCs Wednesday.
A patient from Angul district on the condition of anonymity said, “I had come to SCBMCH for treatment of diabetes. Following the doctor’s advice, I went to Niramaya counter to get medicines. However, due to non-availability of medicines, I had to return disappointed.”
In this regard, DDC official Ranjan Biswal said, “More than 1,000 medicines are stocked every day. But I am not aware of any non-availability of medicines Wednesday. I got this news from media. We will immediately discuss the matter with higher officials and ask for medicines. We will focus on ensuring that patients get medicines properly,” he said.
SCBMCH Administrative Officer Abinash Rout said, “We have not received any such complaint so far. If the medicines are not available at Niramaya counters, we will make arrangements to procure them as soon as possible.”
It can be mentioned here that ‘Niramaya’ is a free medicines distribution scheme of Odisha government which has been implemented since May 1, 2015.
PNN