Kerala to set clear norms for Medical college Hospitals referrals

Dr Aravind C S, state secretary of Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association told TNIE "A lot of patients who can be treated at the peripheral hospitals are referred to the emergency and outpatient sections at GMCHs. A majority of the accident cases which require only minor suture are now treated at MCHs. This should be avoided. Already, the doctors are overburdened due to patient load. A proper referral will enable the doctors to provide maximum care to patients."

Minister George said that the MCH control room should get notified of the information of a referral of a patient to an ICU or in any general ward to check the available bed or ventilator facilities at the MCH.

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She also said to utilize the speciality or super speciality facilities available at district hospitals, Taluk hospitals and health centres instead of referring the patients to MCH.

Dr TN Suresh, general secretary of KGMOA complained about the staff strength by saying "The GMCHs still have PG students and senior residents to look after patients. But in peripheral hospitals, the staff strength is limited. If the patient load increases beyond the capacity, a referral is the only option left. The posts of 128 specialist doctors have been lying vacant for several years."