IMA Pune demands streamlined, spot-on license renewal process for healthcare establishments, writes to PMC

Written by Sanchari Chattopadhyay Published On 2023-12-06T17:12:58+05:30 | Updated On 6 Dec 2023 6:51 PM IST

IMA Pune demands streamlined, spot-on license renewal process for healthcare establishments, writes to PMC

IMA stated that an on the spot single window system would expedite the renewal process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for medical facilities in Pune.

Pune: In a recent development, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Pune chapter has requested the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to implement an on-the-spot single-window system for license renewal. Simultaneously, the IMA has voiced strong opposition to the amendments proposed in the Maharashtra Nursing Homes Registration (Amendment) Rules, 2021.

The demand for a streamlined and spot-on license renewal process aims to simplify administrative procedures for healthcare establishments. IMA stated that an on-the-spot single-window system would expedite the renewal process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for medical facilities in Pune. Dr Sanjay Patil, former state vice-president (VP), IMA and chairman, of the Hospital Board of India, Pune chapter told Medical Dialogues that last year an expert team conducted a thorough investigation of the facilities, and an on-the-spot registration of licenses was initiated and this system should continue to prevail.

“Previously the hospitals had to apply to Zonal officers and they it was referred to the Central Building. But the on-the-spot registration means hospitals don’t have to visit the ward office to submit documents or send staff for verification of documents,” he said.

Also Read: IMA Maharashtra expresses concern over Bombay Nursing Home Act

The PMC has 899 registered hospitals with 19,833 total beds in the city. Every three years, nursing home licenses must be renewed. About 150 hospitals had their licenses renewed last year. However, PMC did not take into consideration the Maharashtra Nursing Homes Registration (Amendment) Rules, 2021 last year. The amendments included increased registration charges, infrastructure changes, Manpower, and doctor’s ratio per patient and bed. The Pune Municipal Corporation has sought guidance from the Public Health Department on whether the amended rules should be applicable during renewals. Expressing dissent against the proposed amendments in the Nursing Homes Registration Rules, IMA asserted that these changes are impractical and unjust.

Dr Pati also highlighted the impracticality of the amendments, stating, "We need to renew our operating licenses every three years. The recent amendments have introduced significant increases in registration charges, infrastructure mandates, and staffing ratios. For instance, charges for 5 beds have escalated from Rs 100 to Rs 5000, with an additional Rs 5000 for every bed beyond 5. Furthermore, there is a 25% increase in registration fees every three years. They have also mentioned a staff ratio. However, it's not easy to get ANM, GNM, and BSc nurses in Pune. If the head of the hospital can maintain the quality of service, fixing a staff ratio seems an unnecessary imposition."

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Dr Patil emphasized the challenges posed by the amended infrastructural norms, particularly for older establishments. The stipulated norms, such as a minimum distance of 6 feet between beds, present difficulties for older healthcare facilities that may not be able to comply due to structural constraints. As the dialogue between the IMA Pune chapter and the PMC unfolds, the medical fraternity anticipates a balanced resolution that ensures regulatory compliance without unduly burdening healthcare providers.

As per a recent media report in the Hindustan Times, Dr Bhagwan Pawar, health officer of PMC, informed about little clarity about the recent Maharashtra Nursing Homes Registration (Amendment) Rules, 2021.

“We have decided to write to the state government to guide us if the new rules have to be considered during the renewal of licenses. Accordingly, the Nursing Home licenses will be renewed. Spot renewals can be given only if all the documents are clear,” he told HT.

license renewalMaharashtra Nursing Homes Registration Amendment Rules 2021Nursing Homes Registration RulesIMAnursing homespuneindian medical association

Source : with inputs

Sanchari Chattopadhyay

Sanchari Chattopadhyay has pursued her M.A in English and Culture Studies from the University of Burdwan, West Bengal. She likes observing cultural specificities and exploring new places.