Pune: The health department has initiated a statewide drive to ensure compliance in private hospitals following instructions from Health Minister Prakash Abitkar. The directives came after a review meeting in Pune involving Health Director Dr. Nitin Ambadekar and senior officials.

Key measures include the mandatory display of rate lists in private hospitals, proper disposal of biomedical waste, and verification of fire safety system permissions. Dr. Ambadekar has instructed district health officials and municipal health chiefs to implement these measures and submit a comprehensive report within a month.

Minister's Inspection Sparks Action

After taking charge of the health portfolio, Minister Abitkar visited Pune's district hospital and Yerawada Regional Mental Hospital on January 3. During his inspection, he expressed dissatisfaction with cleanliness and management. Highlighting the lack of stringent control over private hospitals, he criticized the ineffectiveness of mere issuance of notices without concrete action.

The minister’s concerns about transparency and accountability in the health department prompted immediate action. A circular issued by Dr. Ambadekar mandates thorough inspections of hospitals registered under the Maharashtra Nursing Home Act. Inspection teams will assess compliance with regulations and provide hospitals a month to address deficiencies.

Will Action Match Promises?

While the directives aim to regulate private hospitals and ensure public safety, skepticism remains about their implementation. Past campaigns have failed to produce lasting results, raising questions about the effectiveness of these measures. It remains to be seen if the current drive will bring stricter control over private hospitals or if it will end up being another bureaucratic exercise.