GMC B’la restricts entry of medical reps during working hours

Srinagar, July 19: In a significant move to streamline healthcare delivery and maintain hospital discipline, the Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla has imposed strict restrictions on the entry of medical representatives during official working hours.As per an official order issued by the college administration, it has been observed that medical representatives (MRs) of various pharmaceutical and medical equipment companies frequently visit Out-Patient Departments (OPDs), wards, and other patient care areas during consultation hours, causing unwanted interruptions in medical routines.“In view of repeated disturbances caused by these visits and to ensure smooth and uninterrupted patient care, it is hereby ordered that no Medical Representative shall be allowed to visit any doctor or hospital section before 3:30 PM on any working day,” the order said.While taking serious note of the issue, the administration said any medical representative found violating this directive by entering OPDs, wards, or any patient care area before the stipulated time will face strict action, including potential permanent debarment from entering the hospital premises.Furthermore, the order makes it clear that doctors and hospital staff members who entertain medical representatives during restricted hours will also be held accountable. “Disciplinary action shall be initiated against any staff member found violating this directive,” it said.To ensure the implementation of the order, all Heads of Departments (HoDs) and Section Incharges have been directed to monitor compliance within their respective departments.The hospital’s security and gate staff have also been instructed to enforce the restrictions rigorously. They are required to maintain a detailed log of all visiting medical representatives, including the time of arrival and the purpose of the visit.The order stated that the restrictions are being implemented in the interest of better patient care, hospital discipline, and overall institutional efficiency. The directive has come into immediate effect and all concerned have been asked to adhere to instructions in letter and spirit.