Female patients at District Hospital Shopian are sometimes left embarrassed and uncomfortable while undergoing diagnostic tests because of the absence of a female ECG technician at the facility.
Patients said the lack of female staff to conduct ECG tests can discourage some women from visiting the hospital or undergoing tests recommended by doctors.
Several female patients said they feel uncomfortable when an ECG is performed by a male technician, particularly because the procedure requires electrodes to be placed on the chest.
“Last time a doctor suggested my wife undergo an ECG. She felt embarrassed when a male technician came to perform it,” said Abid Hussain, whose wife had visited the hospital for treatment.
Other women patients said they would feel more comfortable if a female technician was available to conduct ECG tests.
“Sometimes women prefer not to visit the hospital because they feel uncomfortable undergoing such tests by male staff,” said a female patient.
An official at District Hospital Shopian said there is one sanctioned post of ECG technician at the facility, and the post is currently occupied by a male technician.
The official said there is no female ECG technician posted at the hospital at present.
Patients said the absence of female staff for such diagnostic procedures can become a barrier, particularly for women who may already feel hesitant about undergoing examinations involving physical contact.
Mitha Gatoo, a social activist from Shopian, said patients’ comfort and privacy are important during diagnostic procedures and that providing the option of a female technician could help address concerns among women.
He urged the health authorities to consider posting a female ECG technician at the district hospital.
“The availability of female staff ensures women patients undergo the test without discomfort or embarrassment,” Gatoo added.
Many residents also said the availability of female staff would help ensure that women do not avoid or delay medically necessary diagnostic tests because of concerns over privacy.
The hospital caters to patients from Shopian and adjoining areas, making the availability of specialised diagnostic staff important for timely access to healthcare services.
