CMO Dr Ashok Kataria said that there are nearly 1,400 registered private doctors and about 300 registered private hospitals and nursing homes in the district. Therefore, he has ordered that every hospital must put up a board clearly stating that patients can buy medicines from any shop of their choice. Moreover, the use of expired or near-expired medicines is completely banned.
At the same time, hospitals must ensure that no outside ambulance driver or broker is allowed to mislead or exploit patients. In addition, a yellow board at the main entrance of every hospital or nursing home is now mandatory. On this board, the registration number, name of the operator, number of beds, treatment system, available services, and a full list of doctors and nurses must be written clearly in black letters in Hindi.
Furthermore, any carelessness in the referral system or record-keeping will not be tolerated. If a patient’s condition becomes serious, the hospital must immediately refer the patient to a higher-level centre. However, if hospitals admit patients unnecessarily just to collect money, strict action will follow. Also, hospitals must keep updated records for every patient, and the treating doctor’s name and stamp must be clearly mentioned.
Displaying Rate Lists is Compulsory
In order to avoid disputes with patients, the CMO has directed all hospitals to display an estimated rate list of all services and surgeries at the main gate. Otherwise, hospitals running without a rate list will face strict action. Additionally, all doctors and paramedical staff listed in the registration must be present on duty. If anyone joins or leaves, hospitals must inform the CMO office immediately. Likewise, all staff must report to duty only in the prescribed uniform.
Ayushman Patients Must Not Be Harassed
Finally, the CMO said that beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat scheme must receive completely free treatment without any trouble. Along with this, all hospitals must maintain proper parking, cleanliness, and infection-control standards. In the same way, security guards must be hired only through registered agencies.
