Bhigwan Rural Hospital Found Dusty and Filthy Health Team Orders Immediate System Improvement
TC News. Bhigwan (Pune): The poor condition of the Rural Hospital in Bhigwan came to light during a recent surprise inspection by the Pune divisional-level team of the Health Department. The head of the team, Deputy Director Dr. Bhagwan Pawar, severely reprimanded the staff and issued strict instructions to improve the healthcare system. The inspection revealed dust accumulated on equipment and excessive filth across the hospital premises. Deficiencies were also noted in the maternity services.
Repeated Failures Despite Complaints and Protests
Complaints regarding the issues at Bhigwan Rural Hospital had been repeatedly raised at senior levels. Furthermore, local residents had staged a protest last year. Despite these efforts, the divisional team observed that the health infrastructure had seen no improvement.
The inspection team included Dr. Bhagwan Pawar (Deputy Director, Health Services Pune Division), Medical Officers Dr. Abhiraj Suryavanshi and Dr. Anand Sabne, Office Superintendents Ganesh Auti, Ganesh Jagtap, Dhanaji Kaulge, and Facility Manager Sagar Shelke, among others.
Deficiencies Found by the Team
- Hygiene: Dust was found accumulated on equipment and there was excessive dirtiness in the hospital.
- Maternity Services: The expected number of deliveries were not taking place.
- Information Display: Information regarding OPD timings, names of medical officers, and their availability was not displayed on the visible notice boards.
- Testing: Necessary tests were not being conducted.
- Wards: Bed sheets in the male and female wards were not being changed as per the guidelines.
- Awareness Material: Awareness material related to various health programs was not displayed in prominent areas.
Hospital Superintendent Went on Leave
The Rural Hospital staff had apparently received a hint about the divisional team’s visit and were present. However, the Hospital Superintendent submitted a leave application and went on vacation. Other staff members arrived around 6 PM, leading to speculation that the hospital had been tipped off about the inspection beforehand.
Warning of Action Issued by Deputy Director
Taking the situation seriously, Deputy Director Dr. Pawar indicated that action would be taken if the necessary improvements are not implemented in patient services as per guidelines in the future. He also instructed the staff to coordinate with patients, their relatives, citizens, and the media to maximize public awareness about the hospital’s services and facilities.
