Sambalpur, Dec.1: VSS Medical College and Hospital at Burla is yet to get a multi-detector computed tomography (CT) scanner. Mahandi Coalfields Limited, a public sector unit, provided funds for the same around two years ago.

The multi-detector CT scanner is an important equipment for any hospital. Apart from CT scan, the machine can also conduct several other tests. Tests such as angiography can also be done by it.

Associate professor of the radio diagnosis department at the hospital B.B. Panda said: “All the necessary procedures for the procurement of the machine has been over. The Odisha Small Industries Corporation had floated a tender for this purpose.

The company, which will provide the machine, has also been chosen.

However, the machine can be procured only after the state-level purchase committee’s meeting is held.”

At present, there are two CT Scan machines at the radio diagnosis department of the medical college and hospital. However, one of them has been lying defunct for a long time, sources at the medical facility said.

On an average, around 40 to 50 patients visit the radio diagnosis department of the hospital every day. “If another multi-detector CT scanner can be installed at the hospital, the patients will be greatly benefited,” said local resident Swaraj Panda.

“A multi-detector CT scanner will be helpful in conducting many medical examinations in a short while. The patients will get better service at a reasonable price at the hospital,” said a doctor of the hospital, requesting anonymity.

Thousands of patients from west Odisha, besides neighbouring states such as Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand depend on the hospital.

After the installation of the machine, the patients will be able to avail themselves of the quality health service at this facility, said another local resident, Bhuwan Biswal.