New Delhi

In response to the rising violence against healthcare workers, the Health Ministry has directed central government hospitals to enhance their security measures. On Tuesday, the ministry issued a letter to leaders of central hospitals, AIIMS, and other key institutions, urging them to adopt stronger safety protocols.

The letter, from Raj Kumar, Deputy Secretary at the Health Ministry, follows recent nationwide protests by healthcare professionals over the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. To improve security, the ministry recommended several measures, including installing high-resolution CCTV cameras at key locations such as entrances, exits, corridors, and other vulnerable areas. Additionally, hospitals should set up control rooms for quick emergency responses.

The letter highlighted the need for enhanced security due to the potential risks posed by violence in hospital settings. Such violence can disrupt hospital operations and impact patient care. It is crucial for hospitals to display state legislation on preventing violence against healthcare workers and to employ trained security guards for effective monitoring and patrols, it said.

Hospitals are also advised to strictly monitor all entry and exit points, ensure staff, patients, and visitors wear proper identification badges, and conduct regular mock drills to prepare staff and security for emergency situations. The goal is to create a safer environment for healthcare workers and ensure they are equipped to handle security threats.