TB patients stranded as X-ray machine breaks down

Susan Nyamangodo Manicaland Correspondent
THE breakdown of an X-ray machine at Hauna District Hospital in Mutasa is forcing tuberculosis patients to seek medical attention at Mutare General Hospital, some kilometres away.

Most of the patients are failing to travel to Mutare due to high transport costs.

Hauna District Hospital serves as a referral centre for Mutasa district.

Mutasa District medical officer Dr Cephas Fonte said some TB patients were succumbing to the disease after failing to raise money to travel to Mutare.

“Our major problem is the X-ray machine,” he said. “The machine needs a software upgrade. It is difficult for us to run without the machine as it disadvantages the community.”

Dr Fonte indicated the hospital was running short of wards.

“We have another challenge with our wards as there is not enough space,” he said. “We also need beds for the maternity wards.”

Dr Fonte pleaded with Government to intervene and help Hauna District Hospital.

“We will push for this situation to be resolved,” he said. “This is a district hospital and it needs attention because the whole district depends on it.”

Hauna District Hospital was built in 1998 after Bonda Mission Hospital was overwhelmed with patients.