Pempa draws attention to the absence of a gynecologist at the thousands-serving Gedu Hospital. The hospital’s importance in delivering healthcare services is acknowledged by Health Minister Wangchuk. Given its infrastructure capacity and patient volume, Gedu Hospital, which is categorized as a general hospital, is not qualified to hire medical experts. Lyonpo highlights the value of safe maternal care even in the face of a decline in prenatal care visits and deliveries. “To ensure this, all high-risk pregnancies and problems identified during ANC at Gedu are routinely forwarded to Phuentsholing Hospital,” he continued. Phuentsholing is the cluster hospital for the area, and its gynecologists and other experts are equipped to treat complex maternity issues.
The convenient access of Gedu to Phuentsholing, which is just a 45-minute drive away along the national highway, enables timely and pleasant referrals, Lyonpo continued. In addition to bolstering emergency referral and transport systems and investigating temporary solutions for specialized treatment, such as mobile cardiotocography and teleconsultation services, the Ministry of Health is investing in digital tools to enhance maternal health services. Even though Gedu might not be qualified for a full-time gynecologist just yet, Lyonpo said the Ministry is committed to routinely assessing the needs and demand for services in each area.