Private MRI costly, two-month waiting at GMCH

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

To avoid the high cost of MRI scans in private hospitals, patients are increasingly turning to Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) . The process involves first registering at the OPD and undergoing consultation, followed by registration for the MRI scan. This has led to a surge in patient footfall, pushing the waiting period to the end of June. At times, this delay is affecting patients admitted to the hospital.

GMCH has two MRI machines, one near the surgical building under the radiology department and another at the super speciality hospital. Around 50 MRI scans are conducted daily using these machines. Since September last year, the hospital has been offering MRI and CT scans at 50% subsidised rates, making them significantly more affordable. An MRI scan now costs around Rs 1,000, prompting more patients to opt for GMCH instead of private hospitals. As a result, the waiting list has grown, with patients currently being given dates as late as June 27.

Cost in private hospitals

Private hospitals charge between Rs 4,000 and Rs 8,000 for an MRI scan. Compared to this, the lower cost at GMCH is drawing more patients.

Emergency patients prioritised

Around 50 MRI scans are conducted daily on both machines. Patients who are admitted or require emergency care receive immediate MRI scans. Delays may occur in cases where patients are not formally admitted, said head of the radiology department at GMCH, Dr Varsha Rote-Kaginallkar.