Sitamarhi: Bihar Health Minister Nishant Kumar conducted a surprise inspection of Sitamarhi Sadar Hospital late Sunday night during his two-day visit to the district. The unannounced inspection created a stir among hospital officials after several doctors and staff members were reportedly found absent.
The Minister inspected different wards and reviewed the healthcare facilities available to patients. He checked cleanliness, medical arrangements, availability of medicines and other aspects of hospital functioning.
Health Minister Seeks List of Absent Doctors
During the inspection, Nishant Kumar directed the hospital administration to prepare and submit a list of doctors and employees who were absent from duty.
He said the list would be examined and action would be taken against those found responsible for negligence.
“A list has been sought from the hospital administration. It will be examined to see who was absent. Action will be taken against those found guilty,” the Health Minister said, adding that strict action would be taken against those found negligent.
Patients and Locals Raise Complaints
The Minister also interacted with patients and their relatives during the inspection. Several people complained about alleged mismanagement and deficiencies in hospital services.
The complaints included problems with ambulance services and other facilities. Nishant Kumar directed officials to examine the issues and take corrective measures.
Ambulance and Outsourced Services Under Scrutiny
The functioning of ambulance and outsourced services at the hospital will also be investigated.
Patients reportedly complained that ambulance drivers were acting arbitrarily. The Health Minister directed officials to examine why these services were not functioning properly and take appropriate action.
Cleanliness and Basic Facilities Found Lacking
The inspection also highlighted several deficiencies in basic hospital facilities.
According to the observations made during the visit, cleanliness was inadequate in some areas. Patient beds were found without bedsheets, while some windows did not have curtains.
The Minister also observed that some doctors were not wearing aprons while on duty and directed officials to ensure that prescribed standards were followed.
Shortage of Doctors and Essential Medicines
A shortage of medical specialists and essential medicines was also highlighted during the inspection.
The hospital reportedly faces a shortage of surgeons and radiologists. The Health Minister asked the administration to prepare a detailed list of vacant positions, staff shortages and unavailable medicines.
He said the deficiencies would be addressed on priority.
Four RO Plants Installed but Not Functioning
Water supply emerged as another major concern during the inspection.
Patients informed the Minister that four RO plants had been installed at the hospital, but none was operational because they had not been connected to a power supply.
As a result, patients and attendants were facing difficulties in accessing drinking water. Nishant Kumar directed officials to examine the issue and ensure that the facilities become functional.
Minister Assures Action on Hospital Deficiencies
Following the inspection, the Health Minister said the administration had been asked to submit a comprehensive list of deficiencies related to infrastructure, staff and facilities.
“A list of deficiencies has been sought from the hospital administration. Any shortcomings regarding facilities or staff will be rectified,” Nishant Kumar said.
The surprise inspection has put the functioning of Sitamarhi Sadar Hospital under closer scrutiny, with the Health Department expected to examine the reported shortcomings and take action where negligence is established.
