Take Action Against Private Health Institutions: Odisha Govt To Collectors

Bhubaneswar: Following the fire tragedy in SUM Hospital that killed 24 persons so far, the Odisha government on Friday asked the district collectors and Revenue Divisional Commissioners (RDCs) to take action against the private clinical establishments for violation of norms.

“They should immediately inspect all the private clinical establishments in their districts including private medical Colleges and wherever dereliction of non-compliance is found, immediate necessary action must be taken under the Clinical Establishment Act and Fire Safety Act,” said Health secretary Arti Ahuja in a letter.

She said that it should also be made sure that under no circumstances, patient care should be affected.

She asked the district collectors to ensure that SUM hospital like fire tragedy does not occur anywhere else.

“The Clinical Establishment Act amendment has been approved by the Odisha Legislative Assembly and is in the process of notification. I will be communicating the Act and subsequently the Rules for your action,” she added.

A joint team of energy department and fire safety officers will examine all government health institutions and works department will ensure compliance of deficiencies within one month, said the letter.