Is Kerala Health Minister Justifying Patient Treatment on the Floor?
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Synopsis
Kerala's Health Minister Veena George faces criticism for treating patients on the floor at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. Amidst overcrowding, she maintains that no one is denied treatment. Discover the ongoing debate surrounding healthcare conditions in Kerala.
Key Takeaways
- Overcrowding is a significant issue in Kerala's medical colleges.
- No patients are denied treatment, even if it requires floor accommodation.
- Referral protocols need to be strictly followed to manage patient flow.
- Criticism from medical professionals highlights systemic issues in healthcare delivery.
- Opposition voices are calling for urgent reforms in the health sector.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 14 (NationPress) Kerala's Health Minister Veena George addressed the intense backlash regarding patients being treated on the floor at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, attributing the issue to a crisis of overcrowding and insufficient bed availability in medical colleges.
The Minister emphasized that the current situation is a consequence of a significant increase in patient numbers, assuring that no patient is ever turned away, even if it necessitates treatment on the floor.
She noted that medical colleges throughout Kerala are experiencing a patient influx far exceeding their capacity.
“We are actively enhancing our infrastructure. No patient is left unattended. Those who abandon patients will be relocated to safe centers,” she stated.
Veena George stressed the importance of strictly following referral protocols.
“Not all patients should be directed to medical colleges. Referrals should only occur when bed availability is confirmed,” she added, remarking that private hospitals often transfer large volumes of patients to government facilities, further depleting resources.
The Minister refrained from addressing sharp comments made by senior physician Haris Chirakkal, stating, “You can ask him directly.”
Her comments were made following Dr. Chirakkal's critique of the hospital for what he described as “primitive” treatment conditions, particularly the practice of accommodating patients on the floor.
Dr. Chirakkal’s criticism intensified after the recent death of Venu, a heart patient who allegedly did not receive timely care and was required to lie on the hospital floor.
“How can anyone be treated on the ground? What purpose do medical colleges serve if this is the level of care?” he questioned.
He suggested that the situation has caused many patients to turn to private hospitals, asserting that the conditions are reminiscent of those seen in 1986.
Dr. Chirakkal also pointed out systemic problems, including the frequent reassignment of doctors “merely to meet staffing numbers,” urging the government to address these critical gaps without delay.
His previous revelations regarding equipment shortages in the urology department have already placed the Health Department under scrutiny.
For an extended period, Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan has been vocally critical of Health Minister Veena George, labeling her an ineffective administrator and blaming her for shortcomings in the health sector.
Point of View
The criticisms from medical professionals underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms. As the nation watches, it is crucial that authorities address these gaps to ensure that every citizen receives the quality care they deserve.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are patients being treated on the floor in Kerala hospitals?
Patients are being treated on the floor due to severe overcrowding and a shortage of available beds in medical colleges.
What has the Health Minister said in defense of this practice?
Health Minister Veena George stated that no patient is denied treatment, even if it requires treatment on the floor, attributing the situation to a high influx of patients.
What are the implications of the recent criticisms from doctors?
Critics, including senior doctor Haris Chirakkal, argue that such treatment conditions are unacceptable and demand urgent reforms in the healthcare system.
How is the government responding to these healthcare challenges?
The government is reportedly working to improve healthcare infrastructure while stressing the need for better referral protocols to prevent overcrowding.
What is the general sentiment among the opposition regarding the health minister?
Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan has been critical of Minister Veena George, labeling her an ineffective administrator for the issues present in the health sector.
