‘Doctors must alter their conduct’
Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Jan 4: Health Minister Sakeena Itoo emphasized today that there will be no compromise on patient care and clarified that there are no intentions to relocate the Chest Disease (CD) Hospital to Sonwar.
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After making an unannounced visit to the CD Hospital, the Minister stated that the Government is diligently working to comprehend and resolve the challenges faced by both the public and the hospital administration.
“We do not plan to transfer the CD Hospital to G.B. Pant Hospital in Sonwar. Both the public and hospital management are encountering a space shortage that needs to be addressed,” she remarked.
The Minister further highlighted the necessity to look into alternative options, mentioning the potential use of a nearby vacant facility.
“Patients are facing numerous difficulties. For example, there are sensitive cases, yet the hospital is without lifts and ramps. These concerns will be resolved,” she promised.
Notably, the initial proposal to move the hospital to Sonwar was stalled due to operational difficulties identified by the hospital administration.
The initiative followed the relocation of the children’s hospital at Sonwar to Bemina, alongside the completion of a new 500-bed hospital, after missing several deadlines. While there was significant support for this relocation, it encountered resistance from senior medical personnel.
Sakeena emphasized the public’s expectation for the Government to resolve their issues, especially in the healthcare domain, reiterating that there will be no compromise on patient care.
“The health sector is vital, and we will not compromise on patient care under any circumstances. It is essential for both the public and hospital authorities to communicate their issues so we can find solutions,” she stated.
She explained that the aim of surprise visits is to assess patient care, particularly in light of the complaints that have been received regarding this matter.
“These visits provide insight into the challenges confronting hospital administrations and allow us to tackle them to ensure enhanced patient care,” she added.
Reaffirming her dedication to patient welfare, the Minister urged doctors to enhance their conduct towards patients and emphasize effective counseling.
Sakeena also addressed grievances regarding some doctors engaging in private practices during their duty hours, labeling it a significant injustice to the public. She stressed the necessity to eliminate such practices.
In relation to a recent claim of alleged medical malpractice at a private hospital in Srinagar, the Minister reported that an investigation has been launched, with appropriate actions to be taken as per legal requirements.
