On Wednesday, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra instructed all states and Union Territories (UTs) to submit an action report by September 10 on the implementation of security measures for doctors and healthcare workers. This directive follows a recent Supreme Court order emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety for medical professionals nationwide.
In a letter to chief secretaries and police directors of all states and UTs, Chandra expressed appreciation for their participation in a video conference held on August 28. This conference addressed the need for a secure working environment in medical institutions following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Key security measures outlined include identifying high-risk hospitals, conducting security audits, installing CCTV surveillance, performing background checks, and establishing bereavement protocols. States and UTs are advised to prioritize hospitals with high patient volumes for security upgrades. Regular security audits should be carried out in coordination with local health and police authorities to improve existing measures.
Special focus is recommended for areas vulnerable to security breaches, such as emergency rooms, triage areas, ICUs, and labor rooms. Chandra emphasized the importance of proper training and the establishment of bereavement protocols to help healthcare workers manage intense and emotional situations.
Chandra noted that several states have already started implementing measures based on previous recommendations from August 23, with some even adopting additional security enhancements beyond the ministry’s suggestions.