Why Did the Assam Government Express ‘Serious Displeasure’ Over a Newborn's Death in GMCH?
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Synopsis
The tragic loss of a newborn at GMCH has raised serious concerns about hospital protocols. The Assam government has taken a strong stand against negligence, demanding accountability and enhanced safety measures. This incident sheds light on critical issues in healthcare facilities and the urgent need for reform.
Key Takeaways
- Assam government expresses serious displeasure over the incident.
- Multiple hospital staff suspended following internal investigations.
- Urgent need for enhanced hospital safety measures.
- Families demand accountability for negligence.
- Chief Minister intervenes to enforce stricter protocols.
Guwahati, Sep 2 (NationPress) The Assam government has expressed its strong dissatisfaction to the authorities of Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) regarding the unfortunate incident last month where a newborn lost its life and three other infants were harmed in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
In a forthright letter, Siddharth Singh, Commissioner and Secretary to the Assam Government, reprimanded GMCH Superintendent Dr. Achyut Baishya and Additional Superintendent Dr. Pradip Kumar Das on Tuesday, urging them to prevent such occurrences in the future.
“This includes, but is not limited to, enhancing oversight, ensuring strict compliance with all safety protocols and Standard Operating Procedures. You are also instructed to exercise caution henceforth to avoid the recurrence of such incidents,” the letter emphasized.
The hospital has been directed to present a compliance report to the Health Department promptly.
Following an internal investigation, the GMCH administration has already suspended several medical staff.
The individuals under indefinite suspension include Dr. Anupama Deka, Head of Pediatrics, and Associate Professor Dr. Dipankar Hazarika. Both are required to remain in Guwahati during their suspension and are prohibited from engaging in any private practice or professional work until further notice.
Additionally, Nurse In-Charge Gomati Devi, staff nurse Chandana Nath, and NICU technician Ishan Jyoti Talukdar have also been suspended.
Furthermore, two more doctors – Dr. Hrishikesh Thakuria and Dr. Puja – have been suspended for six months based on complaints from the families of the affected infants.
The incident took place in the labor and delivery section of GMCH, where four to five newborns were reportedly placed on a single NICU bed, raising serious concerns about the hospital's safety and capacity.
One infant died, and three others suffered significant injuries after allegedly falling from the NICU bed.
Families of the victims have accused the hospital of negligence, pointing to repeated lapses in supervision. The situation escalated after police apprehended an on-duty nurse while the state government replaced the hospital superintendent.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also intervened, mandating strict accountability and enhanced safeguards to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies at the state's leading medical facility.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the gravity of this situation. The Assam government's firm stance against negligence in healthcare reflects a broader concern for patient safety across the nation. Such incidents not only affect families but also challenge the credibility of healthcare institutions. Strong measures must be taken to ensure accountability and restore public trust.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at GMCH?
A tragic incident occurred where a newborn died and three others were injured in the NICU due to apparent negligence.
What actions has the Assam government taken?
The Assam government expressed serious displeasure and demanded compliance reports, while also suspending several medical personnel.
What are the concerns raised by the families?
Families have accused the hospital of negligence and highlighted repeated lapses in supervision.
