Recently, the Chhattisgarh High Court took cognizance of reports concerning alleged deficiencies in medical services at public hospitals in Chhattisgarh and directed the State to take immediate steps to improve facilities. The Court emphasized that while efforts have been made, the existing medical infrastructure and staffing remain insufficient relative to patient load, urging enhanced measures to ensure timely and adequate healthcare.
The matter arose following news reports alleging severe shortcomings in medical services at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Bilha, District Bilaspur, and Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital, Raipur. Reports highlighted absence of doctors, non-functional X-ray machines, inadequate staff, and delays in patient registration and treatment. The Court sought affidavits from the Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Chhattisgarh, detailing the status of facilities and services at the hospitals.
The Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare, submitted affidavits explaining that the CHC Bilha and the Ambedkar Hospital were operational with functioning X-ray machines, sonography, pathology labs, and vaccination facilities. While some specialist posts were vacant, the existing doctors and medical staff were attending duties as per duty rosters. Measures such as Aadhaar-based attendance for doctors were being introduced. Respondent (CGMS) was directed to supply requisite medical kits to enhance services.
The Court noted that although hospitals have adequate doctors on paper, vacant posts and overcrowding continue to affect service delivery. It observed that reagents for some pathology tests were unavailable, limiting diagnostic services, and emergency medical care during night hours remained challenging despite alternative arrangements. Highlighting the need for better healthcare facilities in view of large patient inflow, the Court remarked, "Considering the fact that the State had made efforts for providing better medical facilities, it appears to be insufficient relative to the number of patients visiting the hospitals. We hope and trust that the State would take more initiative for providing better medical facilities to the hospitals of the State".
The Court also directed the Secretary to file a detailed affidavit on steps being taken to address issues such as supply of surgical materials and improvement in hygiene standards. Additionally, CGMS was directed to supply necessary kits and file a report on actions taken to ensure enhanced patient care.
The High Court directed the State Government and CGMS to take immediate and effective measures to improve medical facilities at the hospitals and to file comprehensive affidavits detailing the actions taken. The next hearing is scheduled to monitor the implementation of these measures.
Case No.: WPPIL No. 27 of 2024
Coram: Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha, Justice Bibhu Datta Guru
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