Crackdown on 'Broker Raj': West Bengal's Healthcare Reforms

Expressing firm concern over the 'broker raj' accusation affecting state-run hospitals, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari called for immediate action and accountability among healthcare facilities. During a critical meeting with Health Department officials and key hospital personnel, Adhikari emphasized strict measures to enhance transparency and prevent unethical patient referrals.

Adhikari has directed that state hospitals install display boards indicating bed availability to improve the admission process. A zero-tolerance policy against middleman activities was underscored, backed by mandatory identification for all medical staff. Procedures to bolster security for medical students were also put forward, along with protocols to prevent unlawful campus entries.

In addition to outlining these improvements, discussions also covered the development of a new app-based ambulance service for the region. The state plans to equip ambulances with GPS for faster response times. Moreover, the setup of a central war room in Swasthya Bhavan aims to provide real-time operational oversight, directly connected to the Chief Minister's office. The Chief Minister plans similar discussions with private hospitals concerning state-referred patient bed allocations.

(With inputs from agencies.)