Srinagar, July 25. In the wake of a recent incident at SMHS Hospital in Srinagar that disrupted healthcare services, Health Minister Sakina Yatoo visited the hospital to assess the situation firsthand. During her visit, the minister expressed serious concern over the episode and its impact on patient care, and assured that accountability will be ensured at all levels.
Speaking to reporters at the hospital, Sakina Yatoo revealed that an official inquiry has been launched to determine the exact circumstances of the incident. “Whosoever is found involved, be it a doctor or a staff member, will face strict action. No one will be spared if found guilty,” she asserted.
The minister also disclosed that some doctors abandoned their duties in the aftermath of the incident, which left many patients unattended and caused significant distress. “This is unacceptable. Those who left patients midway will not be let off lightly. Action will follow,” she said.
To restore discipline and transparency in government hospitals, Sakina Yatoo announced that a formal directive will soon be issued mandating all doctors to wear aprons bearing a prominently visible ‘Doctor’ sticker. The move, she said, is aimed at ensuring clear identification and better accountability in the health system.
The visit of the Health Minister comes at a time when public confidence in hospital administration and healthcare services is being tested. Many attendants at SMHS voiced frustration over delays and confusion caused during the incident. The Health Minister assured them that such episodes would not be tolerated going forward.
Officials said that once the inquiry report is submitted, necessary disciplinary measures will be taken without delay. [KNT]
