Goa Rights Panel Demands Psychiatric Ambulances

The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has called for critical improvements at the Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour (IPHB) in Bambolim. The commission has recommended the provision of dedicated ambulances for psychiatric emergencies and the establishment of halfway homes for patients without available guardians. These recommendations stem from a September 9 inspection that identified several areas needing urgent attention.

The GHRC's 12-point report, dated September 24, specifically addresses concerns regarding patient welfare, including food allocation, kitchen infrastructure, and staffing. The commission noted that standard ambulance services generally do not cater to psychiatric patients, advocating for specialized units equipped with trained personnel in each taluka or a group of talukas. This aligns with the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017, which the GHRC urges the government to implement more fully.

Furthermore, the commission observed that some individuals remain at IPHB post-treatment due to a lack of suitable alternatives for their discharge. The existing food budget of Rs 120 per patient was deemed insufficient, with officials suggesting Rs 150 is necessary. The report also pointed out deficiencies in cold storage facilities and hygiene issues related to discarded items on hospital grounds.

Looking ahead, the GHRC anticipates IPHB's expansion, which will increase bed capacity. Consequently, it stressed the importance of proactive recruitment planning for additional medical, nursing, paramedical, and rehabilitation staff to manage the growing patient load. Despite these concerns, the commission acknowledged positive initiatives, such as improved referral systems and specialized child OPDs.