Bihar Hospitals to Digitally Track All Patient Referrals

Bihar's state health department has implemented strict operational guidelines for district and sub-divisional hospitals, focusing on regulating patient referrals. The directive, issued on July 10, mandates the digital documentation of every referral through the BHAVYA portal, an integrated digital health platform. This aims to curb unnecessary transfers and ensure patients are moved to higher centers only when local treatment is unavailable.

Under the new protocol, referrals to super-speciality care require prior evaluation by a specialist. Sub-divisional hospitals must refer patients to district hospitals or medical colleges only if the necessary treatment is locally absent. Hospitals must also ensure all diagnostic and treatment facilities are fully utilized before considering a referral.

All referrals must now be digitally recorded on the BHAVYA portal, including complete clinical details, investigations, and treatment history. Patients' Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers are to be linked, creating electronic health records (EHRs) for better continuity of care. IPD, trauma, and emergency departments must operationalize BHAVYA modules for timely data entry and monitoring.

Institutions must ensure prompt initial treatment and investigations in emergency and trauma cases without procedural delays. Referrals require clear documentation of reasons and receiving institutions for accountability. A computerized copy of the patient's journey must be provided, even to mobile phones in emergencies. Stabilized patients must be sent via government ambulances without unnecessary delays.

Civil surgeons are tasked with ensuring strict compliance, while district authorities will monitor implementation and submit reports. This protocol aligns with Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary's announcement of a statewide referral policy effective August 15, designed to reduce unnecessary referrals and improve resource utilization in healthcare facilities.