Undergoing an ultrasound scan is no longer a matter of time and cost for the people of Samdrup Chhoeling in Samdrup Jongkhar. Much to their relief, the dungkhag’s hospital has started providing the service recently.
After the ultrasound machine was set up at the hospital five months ago, more than 650 people have availed themselves of the service.
Earlier, people travelled to the Dewathang hospital, which is more than 40 kilometres away, for an ultrasound.
The health service is expected to benefit more than 10,000 people in Samdrup Chhoeling, in particular, pregnant women.
“We no longer have to travel through a bad road to get to Samdrup Jongkhar for an ultrasound scan. Moreover, it was difficult getting a ride to the town,” said Sangay Zangmo, in Phuntshothang Gewog under Samdrup Jongkhar.
“Before, travelling to Dewathang or Samdrup Jongkhar for ultrasound cost us time and money. But now, we have the service here and we are grateful,” said another.
Soon, the dungkhag hospital will also provide x-ray services. The hospital received an x-ray machine recently.
According to the district health officer, besides setting up ultrasound machines in the hospitals, the sector conducts mobile ultrasound camps to take the service to people of far-flung communities in the district.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sonam Wangdi
