Barabanki cracks down on 9 hospitals, clinics for regulatory violations

Barabanki: Health authorities in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki district have intensified their crackdown on illegally operating healthcare facilities, issuing notices to nine hospitals and clinics after inspections revealed serious regulatory violations, including the absence of valid registrations and the alleged operation of hospitals by practitioners claiming Ayurveda qualifications. 

The inspection drive was conducted by separate teams from the Community Health Centres (CHCs) at Zaidpur and Satrikh. While no facility was sealed during the operation, authorities directed all nine establishments to submit their explanations within three days after multiple deficiencies were identified, reports Amar Ujala.

At Zaidpur, a five-member inspection team led by CHC Superintendent Dr Jagdish Kumar inspected several hospitals and clinics in the area. During the inspection of Abi Hospital near the power house, officials reportedly found patients being admitted despite a notice stating that the doctor was on leave. The team also observed that the facility did not meet prescribed standards, including the outpatient department (OPD) and operation theatre. 

The inspection further covered the clinics of Ayush practitioners in Garhi Kadim, Mehndi Katra, and clinics operated in Usri. According to the inspection team, several operators were found running full-fledged hospitals under the guise of holding Ayurveda degrees. Notices highlighting eight separate points of non-compliance were issued to these five operators, who have been instructed to respond within three days.

Meanwhile, another inspection team led by Satrikh CHC Superintendent Dr Nitish Kumar Singh carried out checks in the Satrikh area. During the drive, Amina Hospital at Satrikh Chauraha, along with clinics operated in Akhtiyarpur, were found to be functioning without valid registration. 

In Sharifabad, inspectors also visited a hospital, where they reportedly found no registration documents. The facility was additionally found lacking arrangements related to biomedical waste management and fire safety protocols.  

Confirming the action, Nodal Officer and Additional Chief Medical Officer (ACMO) Dr L.B. Gupta said notices have been issued to all facilities where irregularities were detected. The operators have been asked to present their explanations within three days, after which further action will be decided based on their responses.