In India, the discrepancy between the conditions of private and public hospitals remains stark, primarily attributed to the substantial fees levied by private institutions. While efforts have been made by the government to enhance public healthcare facilities, many government hospitals still grapple with resource deficiencies, leaving them unable to provide adequate amenities for patients and their families. However, recent initiatives in Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, signal a positive shift.
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Tiruchirapalli has introduced hostel facilities for families of in-patients, a collaborative effort between the Trichy Corporation and a voluntary organisation. Established in 2016 under the National Urban Livelihood Programme, this scheme addresses the longstanding issue of inadequate accommodation for patients’ attendants within hospital premises.
Recognising the necessity of familial support for patients, the organisation observed that relatives often had no option but to sleep in hospital lobbies, near patient rooms, or on staircases due to the lack of designated sleeping areas. To alleviate this hardship, a hostel adjacent to the Government Hospital Campus Police Station now provides overnight accommodation for attendants.
To access the hostel, attendants need to present their Aadhaar card or any other identity document, along with a copy of the patient’s OP slip and pay a nominal fee of Rs 10. The hostel is equipped with essential amenities such as 24×7 drinking water, toilet facilities, bed mattresses and fans. Moreover, separate accommodations are available for male and female attendants, ensuring privacy and comfort. Notably, the hostel strictly prohibits the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on patients’ families by providing them with a safe and comfortable space to rest while attending to their loved ones in the hospital. By addressing the practical needs of attendants, the hostel contributes to a more holistic approach to patient care at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital.
Through collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and voluntary organisations, such initiatives serve as exemplars for improving public healthcare infrastructure and prioritising patient welfare in India. As similar initiatives are replicated across the country, they hold the potential to bridge the gap between private and public healthcare facilities, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all.
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