Pvt practitioners allowed to work: Dr Jitendra
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 11: Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla today said there have been reports of many private clinics and nursing homes not being allowed to open at several places saying the functioning of these medical facilities, which supplement the regular medical infrastructure, and relieve the burden on hospitals, is also crucial.
“I would urge all States and UTs to ensure that such clinics and nursing homes continue to function without any hindrances,” Bhalla said in a letter written to all Chief Secretaries of States and Union Territories.
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The Home Secretary said all State and UT Governments should ensure that their field officials allow smooth movement of all medical professionals, nurses, para medical, sanitation personnel and ambulances.
They should also ensure the opening of all private clinics, nursing homes and labs with all their medical professional and staff.
Bhalla referred to a meeting held by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Sunday where the issue of restrictions being imposed by some States and UTs on the movement of medical professionals and para-medical personnel was flagged.
“As you are aware, the services of medical and para-medical staff are urgently required in meeting the challenge of COVID-19 pandemic.
“Furthermore, the existing staff, apart from this duty, also has to render normal responsibilities, such as conducting immunization programmes, handling the onset of vector and other seasonal diseases, and meeting other non-COVID emergencies,” he said.
Meanwhile, Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Dr Jitendra also tagged the letter written by the Union Home Secretary to the Chief Secretaries of States/UTs and tweeted: “Important information for private medical practitioners. Instructions issued to States/UTs. Ensure opening and smooth functioning of all private clinics, private Nursing Homes and private laboratories”.
The Union Home Secretary said inter-state movement of doctors and paramedics should be facilitated wherever required.
“Any restrictions on the movement of medical professionals and para-medical staff can lead to severe constraints in rendering COVID and non-COVID medical services.
“As such, ensuring unhindered movement of all such medical professionals is essential for meeting public health requirements and saving precious human lives,” Bhalla said in the letter.
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