Expert committee examines hospitals regarding Covid-19 compliance

A committee of experts embodied in several districts of the state to examine the hospitals providing Covid-19 treatment with respect to their infrastructural facilities and patient services is countering lapses.

The experts are investigating the Covid hospitals for the presence of CCTVs, help desks, patient counseling services via video calls, compliance regarding patient diet and other Covid norms. The investigation also includes examining the dealing with the dead bodies of Covid positive patients whether it is done in a dignified manner.

Earlier last month, the Shivamogga district expert committee presented a report post inspection of one government district hospitals and five private hospitals: McGann District Hospital, Sahaydari Narayana Hrudayalaya, Nanjappa Hopsital, Subbaiah Institute of Medical Sciemmces and Research and Max Hospital.

Missing CCTVs, help desks and telephonic communication

From the reports submitted, it was evident that the McGann District Hospital, Sahaydari Narayana Hrudayalaya, Nanjappa Hopsital lacked CCTVs, help desks and dormitories for attendants. CCTV was also missing at Max Hospital. The hospitals also lack telephonic communication between patients and attendants.

There were several complaints from people regarding the Covid regulations followed by the hospitals. There were also complaints about handing over the dead bodies by the relatives of patients which is delayed. The hospitals have been issued with the guidelines of hiring a public relations officer for patients.

The expert committee was set up under the directions and mentorship by chairman Jayadeva Hopsital Director Dr CN Manjunath. The reports will be submitted to the court, spoke Dr Manjunath

In an interview with DH, Dr Majunath stated, “The committee will visit three hospitals randomly, both government and private, in a week. Through video calls, patients should be able to talk to their families to keep their morale up. Disposal of biomedical waste will also be checked.”