Hyderabad Authorities Target 250 Private Hospitals Over Registration Violations
In a significant crackdown on unregistered healthcare facilities, at least 250 private hospitals across Hyderabad district are set to receive show-cause notices from district medical and health officers (DMHOs). This action stems from a comprehensive survey initiated by district collector offices to combat quackery and identify establishments operating without the compulsory registration required before commencing any healthcare services.
Survey Reveals Widespread Non-Compliance
The survey, which began approximately six months ago, has uncovered that 224 hospitals in Hyderabad and Secunderabad, along with 26 in Medchal-Malkajgiri, are functioning without proper registration. Officials emphasized that registration is mandatory prior to starting operations, and these facilities have violated established rules. Additionally, hospitals employing doctors or staff without notifying authorities have been flagged for further scrutiny.
Hyderabad boasts nearly 4,000 private hospitals, nursing homes, diagnostic centres, and clinics, making this regulatory effort crucial for public safety. Dr J Venkati, the Hyderabad DMHO, stated, "Since these are qualified professionals, they are expected to be aware of the rules. A show-cause notice will be served, and they will be asked to temporarily close the facility until all required documents are submitted and registration is completed."
Strict Penalties and Immediate Closures for Unqualified Operators
Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken if unqualified individuals are found operating hospitals. A senior doctor from the Medchal-Malkajgiri DMHO explained, "If the survey reveals that unqualified persons are running hospitals, the facilities will be closed immediately. We will report such cases to the Telangana Medical Council, and FIRs will be registered against the quacks." Over recent years, the Telangana Medical Council (TGMC) has filed hundreds of FIRs against quacks for endangering lives, underscoring the seriousness of this issue.
The show-cause notices will grant hospitals a three-day window to submit their explanations. Following the DMHO's actions, the TGMC will impose penalties in accordance with National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines. Dr Gundagani Srinivas, chairman of the public relations committee at TGMC, clarified, "We are awaiting detailed information from the DMHO. Once the DMHO initiates action, we will be informed to take further steps. Hospitals will be fined accordingly, ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 5 lakh, depending on the nature of the violation of NMC norms."
Ongoing Verification of Medical Credentials
In parallel, health department officials are actively identifying unqualified individuals posing as doctors by verifying their medical certificates and license registrations. This multi-pronged approach aims to ensure that all healthcare providers in Hyderabad meet the necessary standards, thereby protecting patient safety and upholding regulatory integrity.
The crackdown highlights the authorities' commitment to enforcing healthcare regulations and eliminating fraudulent practices in the medical sector. As the process unfolds, affected hospitals must comply promptly to avoid severe financial penalties and potential legal consequences.
