The District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) have submitted to the Meghalaya government the inquiry report into the alleged absence of a doctor at the Mawlai Mawiong Community Health Centre (CHC) on the night Lok Sabha MP Ricky A.J. Syngkon collapsed and later passed away. Senior Health department officials are currently examining the probe report.The Shillong MP’s untimely demise has triggered public outcry and controversy regarding medical apathy, bringing to the fore the issue of doctor shortages in primary health centres (PHCs) and community health centres (CHCs). According to reports, there was no doctor on duty at Mawlai Mawiong CHC when the incident happened, with only nursing staff available at the CHC located on the outskirts of Shillong. The reported failure of the medical staff at the CHC to provide round the clock medical care and alleged lapses in staffing even after the incident have sparked concerns among people.
According to reports, the Shillong MP became unresponsive after collapsing while playing futsal at the Ratson Arena Futsal Ground. Witnesses reported that the 108-ambulance service was contacted immediately but arrived late, prompting those present to take the MP to the nearby Mawlai Mawiong CHC in a private vehicle. A senior Health official however said that the nurses and staff at the CHC adhered to emergency protocols, providing the care within their capacity before referring the patient to a higher facility. The official declined to share further details, stating that the findings would be clarified and made public once the review is complete.
