Additional token counters and expanded token areas in key departments, equipped with token dispenser machines have brought much relief to patients visiting the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu. They no longer have to wait in long queues for hours to get tokens. However, some patients said while the token issuing system has improved, the lack of adequate doctor chambers remains a concern.
By 7:30 AM, the once-crowded token area at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH) now presents a calmer scene. Patients, previously forced to stand in long queues for hours, can now relax, thanks to the hospital’s upgraded token system.
The Phlebotomy Department has seen the most significant improvement, doubling its patient intake from around 200 to over 400 daily, with five new token counters.
The department now operates ten counters for blood, excreta, and sputum sample extraction. Token distribution starts at 7:30 AM and continues until 1:30 PM, ensuring no patients are sent home if they arrive within that period.
The hospital has also enhanced the laboratory infrastructure and increased staff in the phlebotomy department.
The medical department and general Outpatient Department (OPD) also have an additional token counter each.
“The previous space was very small, and the large crowds made it feel cramped and uncomfortable. We had to lay down our health books just to mark our position, as standing for long periods was tiring. Now, there are more counters, more space, and chairs to rest in. It is much more comfortable,” said Kinga Zangmo, a patient.
“It used to be such a challenge to come early in the morning and stand in line for a token. Now, it is much easier. We can simply collect our tokens from the dispenser and then relax outside in the sun while waiting for our turn,” said Tashi Yangzom, another patient.
However, some patients raised concerns that while the number of token counters has increased, the number of doctors remains unchanged.
“The facility has improved a lot and has become much more convenient, especially for older people like us. However, with the ongoing improvements to the infrastructure, we would be grateful if more doctors could be available to meet the growing demand,” said Kaka Tshering, also a patient.
Hospital officials acknowledged these concerns, noting that efforts are underway to address them by adding doctor chambers in the general OPD which sees the most number of patients.
“We have enough doctors at the hospital. What we need now are additional chambers for them. We have already identified the areas for expansion and plan to install three new chambers. We are working on it and expect to have everything completed within a month,” said Dr Sonam Tshering, medical superintendent at the JDWNRH.
Once the new chambers are ready, the hospital aims to ensure that all patients receive treatment.
In the dental department, however, the situation is different. The medical superintendent said that each dental patient typically requires about an hour with the doctor due to the serious nature of cases in Bhutan, making it challenging to reduce waiting times.
At present, there are no plans to add additional token counters or doctor chambers in other departments.
Namgay Dema
Edited by Kipchu
