The Bhagwant Singh Mann government led by the Aam Aadmi Party has issued strict and people-friendly guidelines for private hospitals across the state. These measures are aimed at strengthening patients’ rights and ensuring humane practices in the healthcare sector.
As per directions issued by the Health Department, all private hospitals are now mandatory required to have a mortuary facility to ensure the safe and dignified preservation of dead bodies. This move seeks to prevent situations where families face difficulties regarding the bodies of their loved ones.
The most significant decision states that hospitals must hand over the dead body to the family even if medical bills remain unpaid. This rule has been introduced to protect grieving families from harassment during emotionally sensitive times.
The Punjab government took this step in view of past complaints against certain private medical institutions accused of exploitation, particularly in cases involving patient deaths. Health Department officials said the decision reflects the Mann government’s strong commitment to making Punjab’s healthcare system more people-centric.
All private hospitals have been directed to display clear notice boards highlighting these instructions. This measure is intended to spread awareness and ensure accountability.
The notice boards will clearly mention the rights of patients and their families so that they are aware of their entitlements and can raise their voice against any wrongdoing. The Health Department has instructed hospitals to install these boards at prominent locations for easy visibility.
In cases of unclaimed bodies, the district administration will take complete responsibility for conducting the last rites. This provision applies to situations where the deceased has no identifiable family or relatives. The government has ensured that even in such circumstances, the deceased is accorded dignity and proper last rites.
A defined procedure has been put in place, involving coordination between the local administration, police and health department officials, reflecting humanitarian values and social responsibility.
Additional monitoring teams will be deployed to ensure compliance by private hospitals and to promptly address complaints. Health Department officials stated that regular inspections will be carried out and strict action will be taken against hospitals violating these guidelines.
The government has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance when it comes to patients’ rights and dignity. Plans are also underway to introduce a helpline number for lodging complaints.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated that compassion, dignity and transparency must remain at the core of healthcare services. He assured citizens that the administration will continue working to ensure fairness and trust at every level.
The Chief Minister said the Aam Aadmi Party government is firmly committed to safeguarding the interests of common people and making private healthcare institutions accountable. He added that the government’s objective is to create a healthcare system where even the poorest citizen receives quality treatment without discrimination.
The government is also planning further reforms, including a stronger grievance redressal mechanism, improved emergency care standards and better coordination between public and private health facilities. Health Department officials said a time-bound plan has been prepared to implement these guidelines.
District health officers have been instructed to inform private hospitals in their respective areas and ensure strict compliance. The impact of these measures will be reviewed in the coming months.
Healthcare experts have welcomed these guidelines, saying they will provide relief to patients and their families. Many have pointed out that such rules were long overdue, as there have been instances where private hospitals withheld dead bodies due to unpaid bills. Social workers have also praised the government’s decision, calling it a crucial step towards protecting human values.
This initiative by the Punjab government marks a major move towards greater accountability and transparency in healthcare services. Reaffirming that healthcare is a basic right, the government has emphasized that the private sector must also function with social responsibility.
Through these rules, the Aam Aadmi Party government has sent a clear message that there will be no compromise on the rights of patients and their families. The initiative is being seen as a model not only for Punjab but for the entire country, placing humanity and compassion at the forefront of healthcare services.
