Mandya: Blood is critical to save patients’ lives. If the blood bank fails to function efficiently, lives may be lost, said deputy commissioner Kumara, urging the blood bank officials to prioritise the needs of patients. Patients have complained that the blood bank does not have sufficient blood to cater to the patients who come to MIMS Hospital. “If further complaints arise about the blood bank, strict action will be taken,” he said.Speaking at a meeting with MIMS doctors at the DC office conference hall, Kumara expressed concern over the non-functioning state of the MIMS blood bank. “People view doctors as life-savers. If doctors themselves admit that patients are unable to get blood at MIMS and that no donation camps are being organised in the district, it is a matter of serious concern,” he said.Recalling the earlier success of blood donation drives in Mandya, Kumara pointed out that blood collected in the past was even supplied to neighbouring districts. “Today, poor patients at MIMS are being forced to buy blood from private banks, which adds to their financial burden. Most MIMS patients belong to economically weaker sections. If you work with compassion, solutions will follow naturally,” he advised.Highlighting the risk of an artificial blood shortage, Kumara instructed MIMS officials to work in coordination with efficient blood bank operations. He directed MIMS director Dr Narasimha Swamy to immediately address the issues and ensure regular functioning, with necessary staff deployment. To increase blood stocks, he recommended holding donation camps in collaboration with the Red Cross. He also instructed MIMS medical superintendent Dr Shivakumar to closely monitor daily operations. Red Cross president Meera Shivalingiah, along with MIMS pathology and blood bank staff, attended the meeting.
