State Aims to Strengthen Patient Empowerment by Revisiting Clinical Establishments Act

In a move to empower patients and ensure quality healthcare services, the state has decided to revisit the Clinical Establishments Act (CEA), 2010. With the objective of establishing minimum standards for healthcare facilities and providing patients with rights and effective mechanisms for grievance redressal, the state is determined to enforce this act after several unsuccessful attempts since 2014.

The Directorate of Health Services (DHS) has taken the lead in this initiative by urging all district surgeons, district health officials, and heads of municipal corporations to engage in discussions regarding the CEA and the Bombay Nursing Home Act, which currently governs medical facilities.

Recognizing the significance of collaboration and stakeholder involvement, the DHS has instructed district officials to convene meetings with local branches of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and individual doctors. These discussions will focus on understanding and discussing the rules and regulations outlined in both acts to ensure a comprehensive understanding among healthcare providers.

Dr. Swapneel Lale, the Director of the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), expressed the importance of this endeavor. By revisiting the Clinical Establishments Act and actively engaging with healthcare professionals, the state aims to foster an environment that upholds patient rights and delivers high-quality healthcare services.

Through this proactive approach, the state seeks to strengthen the patient-doctor relationship, improve healthcare standards, and establish a robust system for addressing patient grievances. By implementing the provisions of the Clinical Establishments Act effectively, the state aims to empower patients and enhance the overall healthcare experience for all residents.