Agents Allegedly ‘Force’ Patients Outside GMC Baramulla to Visit Private Clinics, Laboratories
UMAR RASHID
Baramulla, August 29: Concerns have been raised over the alleged presence of agents of private clinics, diagnostic laboratories and other healthcare establishments outside Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, who reportedly approach patients and attendants as they leave the hospital and allegedly pressure them to visit specific private facilities.
Tariq Bhat, an attendant of a patient, alleged that several young men were approaching patients and attendants outside GMC Baramulla and persuading them to visit particular private laboratories, clinics and other healthcare facilities.
“Today, when I came out of GMC Baramulla, I saw several agents approaching patients and attendants and asking them to come to their laboratories and clinics. This is completely wrong. Patients and their attendants should have the freedom to choose any laboratory, clinic or healthcare facility according to their own choice,” Bhat said.
He said such practices are not in the interest of patients and should not be allowed around a government healthcare institution. “Patient care should be the priority, not business,” he added.
Earlier, when the issue was brought to the notice of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Baramulla, the officer had stated that coordination would be made with GMC authorities and the police to address the issue and prevent such activities. However, locals allege that the practice continues and effective action is yet to be seen.
Patients and attendants have appealed to the higher authorities, the CMO Baramulla, GMC administration and other concerned departments to look into the matter and take necessary action to ensure that patients are not pressured or influenced by private healthcare agents outside the hospital premises.
ANN News is the first and only 24*7 Tv News Channel of Kashmir, having its headquarters at Srinagar. ANN News is available on all leading cable Networks, Also Available On JIO Tv , Vodafone,TataPlay , Candor Network, Dailyhunt and other leading Platforms
