Kerala to implement measures for the safety of doctors | Fusion - WeRIndia

The Kerala government has taken action to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals in hospitals after widespread protests by doctors over the killing of a young doctor.

Dr Vandana Das was stabbed to death at a government hospital in Kollam district by a man brought there by the police.

The incident has sparked outrage and protests from healthcare professionals, medical interns, students, and house surgeons across the state.

Following an emergency high-level meeting convened by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, an ordinance will be issued to amend the Kerala Healthcare Service Persons and Healthcare Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property) Act, 2012.

The ordinance will be introduced in the next cabinet meeting. It is decided to set up police outposts in all major hospitals in the state.

The Kerala High Court also criticized the state government and the police for failing to protect the young doctor. The court called the incident a systemic failure.

To strengthen security in hospitals run by the government, hospitals will be divided into three categories. The first category includes medical colleges, district hospitals, and general hospitals. In addition, women’s and children’s hospitals will also be included in them. Police outposts will be set up in these hospitals.

The government will also conduct security audits every six months. Besides, it will explore the possibility of appointing two doctors in the emergency wards of government hospitals at night.

In addition to these measures, CCTV cameras and warning systems will be installed in all three categories of hospitals.

A special security system will be put in place for accused persons and those of a violent nature who require a medical examination.

These measures were suggested by the Kerala Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA) in a letter to the Chief Minister.

The KGMOA has since withdrawn its agitation after the announcement of the proposed ordinance. The association also suggested that armed police be deployed at aid posts to be set up at hospitals with emergency wards.

The government’s actions and the KGMOA’s suggestions aim to create conditions where doctors and other healthcare professionals can work safely.

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