ICU Scrutiny: State Orders Strict Inspections for Hospitals

Patients requiring critical care will benefit from heightened safety measures as the state has mandated rigorous inspections of Intensive Care Units (ICUs) in both public and private hospitals. This initiative aligns with the Centre's "Guideline for Organization and Delivery of Intensive Care Services-2026" and directives from the Supreme Court dated August 13, 2026. District authorities have been instructed to conduct thorough inspections and monitoring of ICU facilities across the state.

Key directives include the establishment of Level-1 ICUs in all district hospitals. Principal medical officers are tasked with assessing current infrastructure, equipment, and available facilities. Steps are being taken to address any equipment shortages by reallocating surplus items within districts or divisions. Hospitals must also prioritize equipment repair through existing maintenance contracts, and unusable equipment will be condemned.

Staffing levels for doctors and nursing personnel in ICUs will be evaluated against established norms. Existing staff will be assigned to ICU duties as needed, with proposals for additional personnel to be sent to the health directorate if shortages persist. Private hospitals will also undergo verification of their ICU setups, equipment, and trained manpower to ensure alignment with central guidelines. Compliance reports from chief medical health officers are expected by September 30.