Kolkata, Oct 24 (NationPress) The Association of Health Service Doctors, a prominent organization representing physicians in West Bengal, has formally urged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who oversees the state’s health and family welfare department, to take steps towards establishing a specialized “hospital security force” similar to the Railway Protection Force (RPF).

This request arises in light of a series of attacks on medical professionals and staff within various healthcare facilities across the state in recent times.

As outlined in a letter sent to the Chief Minister, this proposed hospital security force would be responsible for overseeing all healthcare establishments in both the public and private sectors throughout the state.

Moreover, the association has emphasized the need to bolster existing police posts at hospitals with personnel from the state’s armed police, rather than relying on contracted civic volunteers.

Additionally, the group has proposed that security officers at these medical facilities conduct checks at least three times daily to ensure the safety measures are effectively implemented.

Furthermore, they have advocated for the establishment of a three-member rapid response team in each district to swiftly tackle security concerns within healthcare settings.

According to their recommendations, in the event of an assault on healthcare workers, the rapid response force should arrive at the hospital and connect with the affected staff within 24 hours of the incident.

“This team must collaborate closely with local authorities to guarantee that the necessary actions are taken promptly and that the local police perform their duties effectively,” stated the letter addressed to the Chief Minister.

Other requests from the association include the immediate recruitment of doctors and support staff to fill existing vacancies, a thorough review of staffing requirements due to increasing service demands, and the establishment of a seamless referral system.