SHRC Directs DMO to inspect Valiathura Coastal Hospital

Written by Medical Dialogues Team Published On 2024-12-07T09:30:39+05:30 | Updated On 7 Dec 2024 9:31 AM IST

Thiruvananthapuram: The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed the District Medical Officer (DMO) to assess the infrastructure at Coastal Speciality Hospital in Valiathura, to determine its readiness to resume inpatient and 24/7 services. The inspection aims to address concerns about the hospital’s capacity to provide round-the-clock medical care, which was halted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commission chairperson Alexander Thomas emphasized the importance of understanding the specific infrastructure needs for restarting services. The DMO has been asked to provide a detailed report within six months, which should include details such as the number of doctors, nurses, and other staff needed at the hospital; the current staff strength; the number of beds in the hospital; and whether it has the infrastructure required to restart inpatient treatment.

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Before the pandemic, Coastal Speciality Hospital offered both inpatient and 24-hour services. However, due to a lack of adequate infrastructure and resources, these services were suspended. A report submitted by the DMO noted that the hospital currently employs six doctors, but at least three more are needed to resume inpatient care. It also highlighted that inpatient services could be restored if the structural infirmity and seepage in the hospital building were addressed.

As per the recent media report by The Hindu, the city Corporation Secretary told the commission that according to a circular issued by the Local Self-government department on October 25, 2023, there was permission to appoint only one doctor and one paramedical staff member in the hospital under the Corporation.

The SHRC’s intervention follows a petition filed by Valiathura resident Jerome Meeran, who raised concerns over the lack of medical services in the area.

Also Read:Bengaluru: Surprise inspection reveals crisis at KC General Hospital

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that a surprise inspection of the government-run KC General Hospital by the Lokayukta on Friday has exposed a range of severe violations and shortcomings, raising serious concerns about the quality of healthcare provided at the facility.

District Medical Officerhealthcare infrastructureKerala State Human Rights CommissioninspectionCoastal Speciality Hospital

Medical Dialogues Team