No compromise on patient care: Health minister

Srinagar, Jan 04: Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakina Itoo on Saturday visited Chest Disease Hospital Srinagar where she asked the doctors in general not to compromise on patient care.
The Health Minister has been making surprise visits to major tertiary care hospitals in Srinagar to review healthcare facilities and address prevailing issues.
At CD Hospital, she said that the visit to hospitals is aimed at addressing the complaints of patients and challenges faced by hospital staff and doctors.
“There should be no compromise on patient care. Wherever there are challenges, the government will intervene to ensure services are delivered efficiently,” she said.
Replying to complaints about some doctors engaging in private practice during duty hours, the minister termed it injustice to patients and emphasized the need for strict monitoring to ensure better patient care.
When asked about the shifting of the CD Hospital to GB Pant Sonwar, she said the present NC lead government has not issued any such order for its shifting.
“However, there is congestion, lack of beds, absence of lifts and ramps and these issues require attention, and we will work to resolve them,” the minister said.
She urged doctors and medical professionals to prioritize patient satisfaction and deliver care in the best possible manner, ensuring patients feel secure and fostering positive interactions.
When asked about negligence cases in some private hospitals, the minister said that the government would not allow private hospitals to work on personal whims.
“Patient care is a priority, and there will be no room for compromise. The private hospitals also work under the given guidelines,” she added.