Pawar revealed that the government is also developing a `healthcare response tracker` aimed at ensuring swift and efficient medical attention. Ajit Pawar. File Pic.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday remarked that the tragic death of a pregnant woman in Pune has cast a harsh spotlight on the deep-rooted flaws and lack of empathy within the public healthcare system. According to PTI, the woman was allegedly denied admission at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital due to an upfront demand for a deposit of Rs 10 lakh.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the State Family Welfare Building and Training Centre in Pune and the inauguration of 43 new 'Aapla Dawakhana' clinics, Pawar described the incident as "heart-wrenching" and one that has left an indelible scar on the conscience of society.
The deceased, Tanisha Bhise, was the wife of BJP MLC Amit Gorkhe's private secretary. In the last week of March, she was refused emergency admission by the hospital owing to the non-payment of the hefty deposit. Bhise was later taken to another medical facility, where she gave birth to twin daughters before succumbing to complications.
"The state government has taken serious cognisance of the incident. An inquiry is already underway, and we have received the initial findings. Those responsible will face stringent action," Pawar assured. He reiterated that the objective was not only to hold the guilty accountable but also to prevent such occurrences in future.
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Pawar acknowledged the pressing need to overhaul emergency response mechanisms and insisted on the implementation of a 'no denial policy' that would prevent hospitals from refusing patients requiring urgent care, irrespective of their financial situation.
"We are committed to improving healthcare services across the state," he said, adding that comprehensive changes would be made to rules governing private hospitals.
Pawar revealed that the government is also developing a 'healthcare response tracker' aimed at ensuring swift and efficient medical attention. Plans are also underway to establish a dedicated emergency helpline and deploy rapid response teams to assist patients in distress.
Pawar affirmed that the Chief Minister, the Health Minister, the Medical Education Minister and he himself are aligned in the belief that healthcare is more than a profession - it is a service and a social responsibility.
(With inputs from ANI)
