Centre Urges States to Bolster Doctor Safety Amid Rising Concerns
Union Health Ministry’s Directive for Enhanced Safety:
Following a Supreme Court directive, the Union Health Ministry has issued urgent instructions to all states to bolster the safety and security of healthcare professionals across India. This move comes in response to growing concerns about the security of medical staff, particularly after the tragic incident involving the alleged rape and murder of a female resident doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata.
Key Measures Recommended:
- Formation of Security Committees:
- Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, in his communication to state Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police (DGPs), recommended the formation of "Hospital Security Committees" and "Violence Prevention Committees". These committees, comprising senior doctors and administrative officers, will be responsible for devising and implementing robust security protocols within healthcare facilities.
- Internal Committees on Sexual Harassment:
- The ministry has also emphasized the importance of establishing "Internal Committees on Sexual Harassment" within hospitals to address and prevent incidents of sexual violence against healthcare workers.
- Regulation of Public Access:
- A strict visitor pass policy has been suggested to regulate public access to key hospital areas, ensuring that only authorized personnel and visitors can enter sensitive zones within healthcare facilities.
- Night Shift Safety:
- Recognizing the risks faced by resident doctors and nurses during night shifts, the ministry has advocated for improved lighting in both residential and hospital premises. The directives also call for regular night security patrols and the creation of 24/7 manned security control rooms.
Additional Security Measures:
- Coordination with Local Police:
- The ministry has called for close liaison with local police stations to ensure prompt response in case of any security breaches. State laws protecting healthcare workers are to be displayed prominently in both local and English languages across all healthcare facilities.
- Scheduled Review Meeting:
- A meeting has been scheduled between the Health Ministry, Chief Secretaries, and State DGPs to review the implementation of these measures. This meeting will focus on evaluating the effectiveness of the security protocols and identifying areas for further improvement.
Conclusion:
These directives from the Union Health Ministry highlight the urgent need to protect healthcare professionals in India. By implementing these measures, the ministry aims to create a safer working environment for medical staff, thereby enhancing their ability to provide critical care without fear for their safety.
