Dialysis services at Feni General Hospital have been suspended for 21 days following severe flooding that submerged the hospital’s ground floor, where the hemodialysis unit is located. The hospital, which serves over 200 kidney patients, is facing immense pressure as patients struggle to find affordable alternatives.
Although most hospital services have resumed after the floodwaters receded, the dialysis unit remains non-operational. This has forced many patients, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, to seek treatment at private clinics, where costs are 5-6 times higher. Tragically, two patients have already died due to the lack of accessible dialysis services.
Dr. Asif Iqbal, the Resident Medical Officer, stated that repairs are underway, but there is no definite timeline for reopening the unit. Patients are growing increasingly frustrated, with some having already paid for months of treatment in advance.
With only four private clinics available, patients like Fahima Akter’s husband, who suffers from kidney failure, are unable to afford the soaring costs. The community awaits the restoration of services, as delays could lead to further loss of life.
