Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister of West Bengal, announced major changes to the composition of patient welfare committees in state-run hospitals on September 26. At a meeting with the presidents of medical colleges and hospitals, a “positive” decision was made to dissolve all current patient welfare committees, or “Rogi Kalyan Samitis.” The objectives of this reorganization are to raise the standard of healthcare delivery and better manage patient welfare.
The new scheme calls for the chairpersons of state-run medical facilities to assume leadership positions on the newly established committees. In order to provide a more integrated approach to patient care and facility management, these committees will comprise representatives from a variety of sectors, including doctors, nurses, and local council members. In the end, patients should gain from this move as it is anticipated to promote improved collaboration and communication between local authorities and healthcare professionals.
Apart from the reorganization of committees, Banerjee declared the creation of a mobile application aimed at resolving grievances and concerns expressed by healthcare professionals. The government’s dedication to enhancing medical staff members’ working conditions and giving them a voice is demonstrated by this program.
Examining security protocols in medical facilities was another agenda item for the meeting. Banerjee emphasized the ₹100 crore set aside for infrastructural upgrades, such as the inclusion of more restrooms, CCTV installations for increased security, improved lighting, and access to clean water. Stressing the importance of timely completion, she asked Medical Superintendents and Vice Presidents (MSVPs) to assume direct responsibility for these projects instead than depending on the Public Works Department (PWD).
Banerjee has sent former Director General of Police Surajit Kar Purkayastha to assess security measures in all hospitals and medical institutes. In addition, he will supervise the development of the mobile application. In addition, the principals are to put in place a biometric tracking system so that all security guard and cleaning staff records are kept up to date. The purpose of this action is to improve safety and accountability on hospital grounds.
Banerjee concluded by talking about the “Rattirer Sathi” initiative, which the Supreme Court had previously questioned. This program will be changed to comply with the court’s orders. It was created to employ private security guards to safeguard female medical students and healthcare professionals.
All things considered, these reforms show how proactive the West Bengal government has been in tackling the issues the healthcare system is facing, especially when it comes to bolstering security, guaranteeing better patient welfare management, and upgrading working conditions for medical staff.
SOURCE :
THE PRINT
