Srinagar: The Health Minister, Sakina Itoo, addressed the ongoing doctors’ strike at SMHS Hospital, emphasizing that doctors who deny patients medical care will face severe legal consequences. She condemned the closure of the hospital and the denial of treatment, questioning the accountability of those responsible for such actions, especially if it leads to patient harm.
In an interview with a local news gathering agency here on Friday Itoo announced the immediate implementation of new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure that doctors are present during their shifts, particularly at night, where complaints of senior doctors’ absence have been noted. She expressed deep concern for the patients affected by the strike, highlighting the unjust suffering caused by the closure of emergency services and surgeries. The Minister called for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident, which will investigate the reasons behind the violence and the closure of hospital services. She stressed the importance of accountability across all levels of healthcare, asserting that no one, including doctors, is above scrutiny when it comes to patient care. Itoo also highlighted the need for a change in behavior among healthcare professionals, urging doctors to foster trust and confidence among patients. She introduced a new policy requiring doctors to wear identifiable aprons and nameplates to enhance transparency and accountability. In her remarks, Itoo reiterated that accountability is essential and that the government is committed to serving the public. She encouraged the public to report any misconduct by healthcare professionals, emphasizing that the law must be upheld and that taking the law into one’s own hands is unacceptable.
