Despite spending more than Tk20lakh every month on security personnel, private ambulances continue to crowd the emergency department entrance of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, causing serious congestion and delays for patients.
Hospital authorities have designated only three spaces for private ambulances and two for freezer vans in front of the emergency department. Yet more than 100 private ambulances are parked across the hospital campus, including directly in front of the emergency entrance.
During a recent visit, rows of ambulances were found parked outside the designated areas. CNG-run auto-rickshaws and battery-powered rickshaws had also occupied the area, causingsevere congestion and making it difficult for patients and their attendants to enter the emergency department.
Kamal Hossain, who brought his stroke-afflicted elder brother from Tarakanda, said it took nearly 20 minutes to reach the doctors because of the congestion.“Hundreds of ambulances were parked in front of the emergency department, along with CNG and battery-run rickshaws. No one seemed to be stopping them,” he said.
Hospital sources said the number of ambulances parked around the facility far exceeds demand. They also alleged that an ambulance syndicate controls the area, forcing patients to hire vehicles from its members and preventing them from using cheaper ambulances from elsewhere.
A hospital employee, speaking on condition of anonymity, said staff members also face difficulties entering the hospital because of the congestion.
According to the hospital authorities, 112 Ansar members have been deployed to maintain security and discipline at the facility, costing more than Tk20lakh a month. However, patients and attendants have questioned their effectiveness in controlling the situation.
Khairul Islam, Platoon Commander of the hospital’s Ansar camp, said the members were trying to perform their duties but ambulance drivers often ignored their instructions.
Hospital Director Brigadier General Md Zakir Hossain said he had been on sick leave, during which patrols were disrupted.“Patrolling will now be intensified. No one will be allowed to park vehicles in front of the emergency department,” he said.
The continuing congestion has raised serious concerns over patient safety, as critically ill patients may lose 15–20 minutes simply trying to reach emergency care.
