TIL BDR GHALLEY | Thimphu
Residents of Samtse and Tashicholing are raising concerns over the delivery of essential healthcare services, citing gaps in infrastructure, staffing, and equipment that have impacted patient care. The issues come amid population growth driven by industrial and development projects in the region, which have increased the demand for healthcare services.
At the centre of public attention is Samtse Hospital, where the non-functionality of the CT scan facility has forced patients to travel to Siliguri or Thimphu for critical diagnostic services. The Ministry of Health has confirmed awareness of the issue and said efforts are underway to restore services.
“The CT scan machine itself remains safe and intact,” Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk said during the 21st meet the press session held on 31 October. “The main challenges have been related to supporting systems, particularly electrical stability and equipment protection. Initially, there were rodent-related issues affecting the PCB (printed circuit board), which have now been resolved. Electrical grounding issues were addressed through the installation of a GEE slab earthing system, which is now fully operational.” Lyonpo added.
However, frequent electrical fluctuations in the southern belt, particularly during the monsoon season, have caused damage to the hospital’s Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) unit, which is essential for stabilising power to the CT scan machine. Lyonpo confirmed that they are awaiting spare parts and engineers from the supplier to carry out repairs, which are expected to be completed within the next month, contingent on timely delivery of components.
Lyonpo emphasised that once the UPS and related electrical systems are restored, CT scan services will resume without further delay.
In addition to Samtse Hospital, concerns have been raised regarding Tashicholing Hospital, which was recently shifted to a new building. Residents reported persistent shortages of doctors, health workers, and medical equipment, limiting the hospital’s capacity to provide efficient services. Public concern intensified following the alleged death of a child, reportedly due to the absence of a doctor during a critical time. However, Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk confirmed that a doctor from Phuentsholing Thromde was present at the hospital at the time of the incident.
In response, the minister expressed condolences to the bereaved family and clarified the circumstances surrounding the incident. “The facility had been provided with human resources as per the standard prescribed for a 10-bed hospital, including two additional doctors,” the minister stated. “However, one doctor proceeded for long-term training in July 2025, and another tendered resignation effective October 2025. This left only one doctor in the station, who was on medical leave due to a foot fracture at the time when the child was brought to the hospital. Despite the critical condition of the patient, a doctor present attended to the case, performed intubation, and arranged an airlift. Unfortunately, the child could not be revived.”
The minister highlighted that recruitment and deployment of health professionals is conducted annually in January, making immediate replacements challenging. Nevertheless, Tashicholing Hospital has been prioritised in the upcoming recruitment cycle. Since its recent upgrade in August 2025 to a 20-bed facility, the hospital has already received the first team of recruits, including five nurses, one Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), one dental technician, and one pharmacy technician, deployed on 15th September 2025. Additional medical and support staff will be deployed progressively to meet the standards of a 20-bed hospital and strengthen its service capacity.
Regarding the broader question of upgrading Samtse Hospital to a regional facility, as pledged by the government during elections, the minister confirmed that planning and development efforts are ongoing, although specific timelines for completion were not disclosed. The ministry emphasised that strengthening healthcare services in the region remains a priority and involves coordinated efforts across multiple agencies to improve staffing, infrastructure, and essential medical equipment.
Residents of Samtse and Tashicholing have long advocated for improved access to healthcare, highlighting the impact of limited facilities on vulnerable populations. The absence of specialised services, such as CT scans and sufficient medical personnel, has compelled patients to travel long distances for treatment, often in critical situations. The recent incident at Tashicholing has amplified calls for expedited deployment of staff and operational equipment to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The minister reiterated the commitment to addressing healthcare challenges in Samtse and Tashicholing, noting that efforts to repair essential equipment, recruit additional personnel, and enhance hospital infrastructure are ongoing. Officials confirmed that the CT scan at Samtse Hospital will become operational once supporting systems are fully restored, while Tashicholing Hospital will continue to receive medical and support staff in a phased manner to meet prescribed standards.
Through these measures, authorities aim to strengthen healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and ensure that regional populations have timely access to critical medical services.
