Stop patient referrals without valid reasons: Bhojpur DM

Ara: Bhojpur DM Tanai Sultania on Saturday issued strict directions to district health officials to immediately stop the practice of unnecessary referrals from Ara sadar hospital and other govt health centres. The directive came during a review meeting of the health department chaired by the DM, aimed at strengthening the district healthcare system and ensuring better treatment facilities for patients.Taking a firm stand, the DM instructed that doctors must clearly mention the reason for any referral on the slip and specify which medical facility is unavailable, necessitating the transfer. Emphasizing local treatment, the DM directed that the maximum number of patients should be treated within the district instead of being sent elsewhere.Announcing major upgrades, the DM said sadar hospital will be developed into a super-specialty hospital, while sub-divisional and referral hospitals will be upgraded to specialist-level facilities. “Officials have been asked to identify shortages of manpower and resources within three days and submit a detailed proposal for prompt action,” he said.In a crackdown on alleged middlemen operating within hospital premises, the DM ordered immediate identification of such agents and directed that FIRs be registered against them without delay. Sub-divisional officers and the deputy development commissioner have been tasked with ensuring strict enforcement.Stressing effective use of existing healthcare infrastructure, the DM urged officials to work with sensitivity to strengthen public confidence in govt health services.