Kejriwal visits hospital, assures of action on irregularities

New Delhi, May 25 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday paid a surprise visit to the Sanjay Gandhi Hospital in Mangolpuri and came across several irregularities, on which he assured of action.

Promising similar surprise visits to more Delhi hospitals, the Chief Minister warned that senior medical officers, including the Medical Superintendents, of erring institutions would be changed, if need be.

Kejriwal accompanied by Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain interacted with several patients during his visit, during which many complained about problems they faced at the hospital.

After he came to know that the hospital does not have a regular Medical Superintendent and there was only an additional MS holding charge, the Chief Minister said a full-time MS will be appointed there soon.

Kejriwal later told the media that despite the fact that his Aam Aadmi Party government has made all medicines and tests free in all Delhi government hospitals, he received complaints about violation of this guideline at the hospital.

"Patients here are asked to get their tests done from outside, or buy several medicines from outside. During surgical procedures, they are asked to buy several medical items from outside," the Chief Minister said, adding that the government policy is not being followed at the lower level.

He said he had asked the Medical Superintendent of the Mangolpuri hospital to take action against the officials concerned.

He said he will also talk to Lt. Governor Anil Baijal and take appropriate action.

"I will conduct more such surprise checks in the coming days. We will make all systemic changes required. Some cases of money being taken at some levels was also reported to me by patients; identification of culprits will be done and stern action taken," Kejriwal said.

Earlier this week, Kejriwal had directed the Chief Secretary to ensure 100 per cent availability of medicines, consumables and functioning equipment in all Delhi government hospitals and to certify it.

"We will do whatever required for the proper implementation of our policies to ensure welfare of patients in Delhi hospitals. If required, the Medical Superintendents will be changed," the Chief Minister said.