Ranchi, June 15: In a move aimed at enhancing patient safety, reducing overcrowding, and streamlining hospital operations, the Jharkhand health directorate has issued a directive prohibiting the entry of unauthorized individuals into all government hospitals and medical college hospitals across the state.
According to the directive issued by Dr. C.K. Shahi, Director-in-Chief of Health Services, unregistered journalists, YouTubers, cameramen, and other unauthorized visitors will no longer be allowed inside hospital premises without prior permission. Clear signage will be displayed outside hospital gates to inform the public of the new restrictions.
This decision stems from a review meeting held on June 11 under the chairmanship of Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari. Following the meeting, a circular was sent to all civil surgeons, superintendents of medical college hospitals, and other health officials.
As per the new guidelines, only one or two main gates will remain open based on patient volume, while unnecessary access points will be closed. During night time, only one entry gate will remain functional if adequate. The directive also calls for the deployment of sufficient security personnel at entry points, installation of high-mast LED lighting at main gates, and improved lighting throughout hospital campuses.
A new badge system will also be implemented to control movement inside hospital buildings. Under this system, attendants accompanying patients will be issued an identification badge upon entry, which must be returned upon exit. Hospitals including Dhanbad Medical College, Sadar Hospital, and Shaheed Nirmal Mahto Memorial Medical College have begun preparations for its rollout.
The directive marks a significant administrative step toward ensuring better hospital management and safeguarding patient privacy in Jharkhand’s public healthcare system.
