R. Udayagiri: People here have demanded appointment of a doctor at the Cheligad-based Primary Health Centre (PHC) under R. Udayagiri block in Gajapati district while accusing its pharmacist of taking money from poor patients in the absence of one.
The pharmacist is allegedly checking on the patients and taking advantage of the situation, demands hefty amounts from them while turning away those who cannot pay.
According to sources, around 2,000 villagers depend on the PHC. Left with no option, they have to depend on the pharmacist for treatment. Moreover, they cannot travel to Chandragiri community health centre (CHC) and Parlakhemundi-based district headquarters hospital (DHH) due to the long distance.
Despite repeated pleas with senior officials, no steps have to taken in this regard. Locals demanded appointment of a doctor in the PHC to stop the illegal activities of the pharmacist and to provide proper treatment to the villagers.
When contacted, Zilla Parishad Chairperson Anitarani Behera condemned the act of the pharmacist and assured to bring the matter to the notice of the district collector.
The Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Bipin Bihari said that he would probe into the matter and take necessary steps.
PNN