Govt docs can’t practice privately during duty hours: Min

Chennai: Health minister K G Arunraj has said govt doctors, who also work in private hospitals or clinics, should not engage in private practice during govt hospital duty hours.During an inspection of Chengalpattu Government Hospital on Wednesday, Arunraj said govt hospitals must provide quality treatment and ensure that doctors and staff treat patients with dignity, respect, and care. “There have been reports that some staff members are demanding money from patients and their attendants in the hospital. Such practices should be avoided. Ensure that patients and visitors are not harassed for money. If complaints are received, strict action will be taken against the concerned individuals,” he said.He also found that several toilets were unclean and poorly maintained. He said the lifts were not functioning. He directed hospital authorities to rectify these deficiencies and ensure that all basic facilities for patients are restored at the earliest.The minister also interacted with patients and visitors and assured them that their grievances would be addressed immediately. Visitors requested the reopening of gate no. 3, which has remained closed for a long time an entrance to the hospital, which would be easily accessible to the patients. Arunraj said he would discuss the matter with the district collector and take steps to reopen the gate if feasible.“During the previous govt’s tenure, no major developmental works were undertaken to improve healthcare facilities. We will upgrade infrastructure and modernise govt hospitals to match private healthcare institutions, ensuring that people receive comprehensive treatment and quality services similar to those available in the private sector,” Arunraj said.