RANGAMATI, Apr 18 (V7N) - A critical healthcare crisis is unfolding in the Rangamati Hill Tracts, where a severe shortage of doctors and essential resources is crippling the medical system. The situation has been tragically highlighted by the death of a one-month-old infant due to alleged lack of oxygen.

Sources on the ground, including local reporter Alamgir Manik, detail a dire situation. "Medical services in the Rangamati Hills are in a dire state amid various crises, including a shortage of 40 percent of doctors and a shortage of much-needed cleaners," Manik reports.

The infant, Rimli Chakma, died while receiving treatment at a local hospital on Friday. Her family claims the hospital's lack of available oxygen cylinders prevented timely treatment. Doctor Debashish, who was on duty, declined to comment on the allegations.

The crisis extends beyond a lack of medical staff and supplies. The area's ambulance service is also severely compromised. Ambulance driver Anupam Chakma reports that the vehicle is out of service due to damaged wheels and a depleted battery. Chakma states he cannot get the necessary replacements without authorization from the Resident Medical Officer (RMO), a position that is currently vacant.

Shirin Akhter, Baghaichhari Upazila Executive Officer, confirmed the infant's death and acknowledged the severe shortages. Akhter stated that only four doctors are currently present out of the required sixteen, and even those present are not consistently available.

Rangamati Civil Surgeon Dr. Nuen Khisa told CNN that an investigation committee will be formed on Sunday to examine the circumstances surrounding the infant's death. Dr. Khisa acknowledged the challenges in staffing the Baghaichhari Health Complex and the broader issue of doctor shortages across Rangamati. According to Dr. Khisa, only 63 doctors are currently serving out of the sanctioned 103 positions.

The situation is further exacerbated by absenteeism among existing medical staff and a critical shortage of support staff. Sources within the Health Department reveal that almost all essential nurse assistant and cleaner positions at Rangamati General Hospital are vacant, and recruitment has been halted.

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