Bhubaneswar: Endoscopy services at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar have remained suspended for the past few days after the hospital’s endoscopy machine developed a technical fault, leaving several patients without access to the important diagnostic facility.

Patients, including those coming from distant areas, are reportedly being forced to return without undergoing the examination. The disruption has caused resentment among patients and their attendants, particularly those who depend on the government hospital for affordable treatment.

Endoscopy is an important diagnostic procedure used to examine the digestive tract and detect various gastrointestinal problems. Many patients are advised to undergo the test following consultation with doctors. At Capital Hospital, the service is provided free of cost, making it particularly useful for economically weaker patients.

The hospital normally conducts endoscopy examinations three days a week, with around 30 to 40 patients undergoing the procedure each day. The breakdown of the machine has brought the service to a complete halt.

With the facility unavailable, some patients are being forced to undergo the test at private or other healthcare facilities, adding to their financial burden.

Capital Hospital’s director in-charge, Dr Prabhat Kumar Rath, confirmed that the endoscopy machine has developed a fault. He said the concerned company has been informed about the problem.

As the machine is still under warranty, the company will undertake the necessary repairs, Dr Rath said. He added that efforts are being made to restore the machine at the earliest and resume endoscopy services soon.