Riserboo hospital in Trashigang will receive an ultrasound machine and a technician early next year, health minister Tandin Wangchuk said at the National Assembly on November 28.

Wamrong MP Karma Tenzin had asked the possibility of providing the hospital with an ultrasound machine with a technician at the earliest, for the benefit of the people.

Acknowledging the ministry for providing two additional doctors at Riserboo hospital, MP Karma Tenzin said the hospital is in dire need of an ultrasound machine to cater to people of lower Trashigang and nearby gewogs of Pemagatshel.

“Currently, people have to travel either to Dewathang or Trashigang to avail the service,” he said.

Lyonpo said as per the revised service standards, all hospitals will be provided with an ultrasound machine. However, due to resource constraints, the ministry faces challenges in bridging the gap.

“One ultrasound machine was procured and provided to Riserboo hospital. But because of lack of an ultrasound technician, the machine was mobilised to another hospital,” Lyonpo said.

Every year, radiographers are trained for six months certificate course in ultrasound at the national referral hospital in Thimphu. This is to address the shortage of human resources in ultrasound in the country, Lyonpo said.

“Four radiographers have been trained in ultrasound from May to October this year and are ready to be posted in health facilities that require one which includes Riserboo hospital,” Lyonpo said.

Dechen Tshomo

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