Health ministry bans drug company representatives from hospitals
The directive aims to improve healthcare services in both government and private hospitals
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced a 10-point directive aimed at improving hospital management, with one provision banning pharmaceutical company representatives from hospital premises.
The directive aims to improve healthcare services in both government and private hospitals.
Signed by the ministry's Health Services Division Deputy Secretary Umme Habiba on 18 November, the notice outlines 10 measures designed to enhance treatment quality, particularly for individuals injured during the mass uprising of the anti-discrimination students' movement.
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The directive mandates that both government and private hospitals prioritise injured patients, providing free treatment and, if necessary, covering the cost of medicines in private hospitals.
For private hospitals, if a patient cannot afford treatment, the government will cover their medication costs upon submission of verified bills and vouchers to the Directorate of Health Services.
In cases requiring advanced medical care unavailable within the country, applications for sending patients abroad must be supported by a medical board's recommendations and promptly forwarded to the Health Services Division.
To improve hospital management, the directive requires the introduction of visitor cards to regulate entry. Unauthorised visitors will not be allowed in patient rooms.
Additionally, all medical staff must strictly adhere to appointment schedules and examination timings.
The directive also mandates hospitals to set up reception desks for sorting patients based on their ailments and directing them to the appropriate doctors.
Ticketing processes should be streamlined, and where possible, digital systems should be implemented.
Furthermore, hospitals must ensure that only registered or certified individuals are involved in providing medical services at any stage.
The Health Ministry's measures aim to ensure order and efficiency in healthcare services while maintaining a strong focus on prioritising care for those affected by recent events.
