Steps are being taken continuously by the Ministry of Health on the issue of safety of doctors and medical workers in the country. After the incident of rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata Medical College, a National Task Force was formed by the Supreme Court in which decisions will be taken regarding the safety of doctors. The first meeting of the National Task Force (NTF) was held on Tuesday. In which it was decided that a meeting should be held with all the states and their suggestions will be taken and there will be a discussion about the safety of doctors in every state.
In this regard, a meeting has been organized with all the Chief Secretaries as well as the State DGP on Wednesday so that they can discuss their preparations to implement the measures in all the hospitals of their states. Some of the things that can be considered to enhance safety and provide a safe working environment for healthcare workers include displaying relevant sections of state laws and Indian Judicial Code for protection of healthcare workers along with details of punishments/penalties at prominent places inside the hospital premises in local language and English.
Forming a ‘Hospital Safety Committee’ and ‘Violence Prevention Committee’ comprising senior doctors and administrative officials to strategize and implement appropriate safety measures. Regulating access for general public and patient relatives to key areas of the hospital.
Special steps taken for safety of doctors and medical workers
Strict visitor pass policy for patient attendants/relatives.
Provision for safe movement of resident doctors/nurse in various blocks and hostel buildings and other areas of the hospital during night duty.
Ensuring proper lighting in all areas of the hospital premises, including residential blocks, hostel blocks and others.
Conducting ‘regular security patrolling’ in the hospital premises during night hours.
Setting up 24×7 manned security control rooms in hospitals.
Establishing close liaison with the nearest police station.
Forming ‘Internal Committee on Sexual Harassment’ in the hospital.
Checking the status of CCTV cameras (number and functionality) inside the hospital premises Taking cognizance of the matter and proceeding for necessary implementation/upgradation.
While hearing the case of rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, the Supreme Court had constituted a National Task Force to ensure the safety of medical professionals. The Supreme Court had directed the task force to submit its interim report within three weeks and final report within two months.
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