Health Ministry Directs States to Report on Hospital Security Measures Amid Rising Concerns

Hospitals are encouraged to improve monitoring and response capabilities, particularly by ensuring that security audits are conducted regularly.

In the wake of growing concerns over security in medical institutions, the Union Health Ministry has instructed states to submit reports on measures taken to improve safety in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

This directive follows a virtual conference held on August 28, where Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra discussed key security issues with chief secretaries and directors general of police (DGPs) from various states and Union territories.

During the meeting, the Ministry identified hospitals with high patient footfall as high-risk establishments, requiring immediate security audits.

Chandra emphasized the need for collaboration between local health and police authorities to assess vulnerabilities in these institutions.

Special attention was directed towards critical areas prone to security breaches, such as emergency rooms, intensive care units (ICUs), and labor rooms.

Hospitals are encouraged to improve monitoring and response capabilities, particularly by ensuring that security audits are conducted regularly.

These audits aim to identify potential risks and put in place preventative measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients alike.

Ministry’s Key Recommendations

One of the key recommendations from the Union Health Ministry is the installation and effective operation of CCTV cameras, particularly in high-risk areas within hospitals.

Chandra stressed the importance of regular surveillance, with a central control room monitoring footage in real-time.

This measure is expected to deter potential threats and provide authorities with immediate access to incident footage, allowing for a quicker police response.

Additionally, hospitals are urged to share video footage of incidents with local law enforcement promptly.

This step is aimed at enhancing coordination between healthcare facilities and police forces in responding to security threats swiftly and effectively.

To bolster security, the Ministry recommended the employment of ex-servicemen as security personnel in high-risk areas.

These trained professionals are expected to bring their expertise in managing crises and ensuring order within hospital premises.

Another measure includes the establishment of internal security committees within hospitals, comprising resident doctors and students.

These committees would be responsible for addressing immediate security concerns and ensuring that healthcare professionals are actively involved in safeguarding their work environments.

The directive also highlights the importance of implementing clear standard operating procedures (SOPs) for responding to security incidents.

In addition, thorough background checks for outsourced and contractual workers were emphasized as critical to maintaining a secure environment.

Healthcare workers will also receive training on handling emotionally charged situations, particularly with grieving families.

The establishment of bereavement protocols for doctors and staff is seen as an essential step in preventing conflict and ensuring compassionate patient care.

Timeline for Action

States and Union territories have been given until September 10, 2024, to submit action-taken reports on the immediate and short-term remedial measures they have initiated.

Chandra’s letter noted that many states have already begun implementing these suggestions, with some taking additional steps to address the issue of violence in healthcare institutions.

This directive follows a Supreme Court order on August 22, instructing the Health Ministry to engage with state governments to ensure the implementation of basic security measures.

The Court's decision was prompted by recent protests from resident doctors across the country, particularly after the tragic incident involving the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.