Chandigarh: In a bid to strengthen accountability in healthcare, the Chandigarh administration has revised the punishment for deaths caused by negligence. Common citizens will now face up to five years of imprisonment, while registered doctors will face a maximum of two years, according to Deputy Commissioner cum District Collector Nitin Yadav. This update was shared during a District Registration Authority meeting attended by representatives from health departments, the municipal corporation, police, and the Indian Medical Association.
Key decisions from the meeting:
Medical Superintendent Appointed as Inquiry Officer:
The medical Superintendent of GMCH-16 has been appointed to investigate complaints related to medical negligence and ensure unbiased assessments.
Crackdown on Fake Doctors:
Authorities have been directed to investigate and take strict action against unregistered or fake doctors operating from tents or temporary structures.
Inspections and Penalities:
From April 2023 to July 2024, 31 laboratories were inspected-two were rejected, and penalties were imposed in 22 cases for rule violations.
Mandatory Displays in Clinincs:
All clinics and nursing homes must now clearly display the patient charter, serbice rate list, and complaint officer’s contact details. Violators will face fimes.
AYUSH Registration Clarified:
Only Ayurvedic clinics will be allowed under AYUSH registration. Those offering allopathis treatments under AYUSH licenses will not be registered.
A total of 599 clinical establishments have been registered in Chandigarh as of September 2024, and the administration is aiming to further regulate the sector to ensure transparency and patient safety.