LUCKNOW, Sept. 12 -- Heart patients at Lari Cardiology, King George's Medical University (KGMU) are facing dangerous delays for critical diagnostic tests, forcing many to seek expensive private care. Keshram, 54, from Hardoi, was advised a 2D echo after doctors detected a blocked artery, but the earliest appointment offered was nearly two months away, long enough to put lives at risk.

A visit by the HT found that Keshram's case is not unique. Many heart patients at KGMU face long delays for critical diagnostic tests, despite the hospital's high patient load. Brij Kishore Pandey, a resident of Gonda, was similarly referred for a 2D echo due to blood pressure concerns but also opted for a private facility. "Without proper diagnosis, treatm...