Odisha min orders probe into newborn’s death at PHC

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Naba Kishore Das has ordered for a probe into the death of a newborn at the Gurudijhatia primary health centre (PHC) in Athagarh area of Odisha’s Cuttack district allegedly due to medical negligence.

Das has directed the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Cuttack to submit a report within three days. The minister said action will be taken against those found guilty.

Notably, family members of one Kuni Moharana took her to the PHC yesterday after she developed labour pain. However, they found the hospital closed and not a single staffer of the PHC was present.

After waiting for around two hours, the woman gave birth to a baby under a tree on the PHC premises. Later, her family members took Kuni and the newborn to the Berhampura Community Health Centre, where doctor declared the baby dead.

“The PHC has an MBBS doctor and an AYUSH doctor along with nine staff. The reason behind the closure of the hospital will be investigated,” a medical officer said.