Health dept intensifies checks on hosps, 1 more facility shut

Dehradun: Days after a fire in the ICU of a private hospital in Dehradun killed a 66-year-old woman and injured 16 others, the health department's inspection drive across hospitals and clinics continued on Friday, resulting in the closure of another medical facility and notices being issued to several others for alleged violations.

A dental hospital in Selaqui was found operating without valid registration during an inspection and was ordered to shut immediately. The action follows Thursday's inspections during which three hospitals were closed and notices issued to three other medical establishments.

At Yash Hospital in Sahaspur, a show-cause notice was issued after sanitation and hygiene arrangements were found unsatisfactory. Kar Vida Clinic in Sahaspur was also served a notice after inspectors failed to find registration records during the visit.

At Ayushman Health Care Clinic in Selaqui, inspectors found the number of paramedical staff inadequate, following which a show-cause notice was issued. Another notice was served to Doon Pulse Care Clinic in Sahaspur after officials found that the OPD register was not being maintained.

Chief medical officer Dr Manoj Kumar Sharma said inspections were being carried out to verify compliance with provisions of the Clinical Establishments Act and other prescribed norms. “The crackdown will continue and strict action will be taken against medical establishments found violating provisions of the Clinical Establishments Act,” Sharma said.

Meanwhile, amid rising temperatures and heatwave conditions across parts of Uttarakhand, the health department has directed all medical units in the state to establish dedicated heatstroke rooms.

Director general (health) Dr Sunita Tamta said health advisories had been issued to all districts and arrangements were being made to equip heatstroke rooms with ice packs, IV fluids, ORS solutions, medicines and ventilators. Doctors and health workers have also been directed to remain prepared for the treatment and emergency management of heatstroke cases.

Officials said children, the elderly and outdoor workers should exercise special caution during the heatwave. The National Health Mission has distributed awareness material to all districts, advising people to avoid going outdoors during peak heat hours, drink adequate water and stay hydrated.

Medical superintendent, Govt Doon Medical College and Hospital, Dr R S Bisht said people should watch out for symptoms such as high fever, diarrhoea, nausea and dehydration and seek medical attention if required.