Northeast Desk, August 17, 2024 — The Tripura Health Department has initiated an inquiry into the quality and safety of dialysis services across the state, following growing concerns over patient care. This comes after multiple complaints were received, prompting the government to take immediate action to mitigate risks associated with dialysis procedures.
Acting on the directives of Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, Health and Family Welfare Secretary Kiran Gitte conducted an inspection of the Dialysis Unit and Medicine Ward at GBP Hospital earlier today. The move is part of a broader effort to enhance the quality of care provided to patients undergoing dialysis in Tripura.
A press release from the Tripura Health Department highlighted the commissioning of advanced dialysis services at ESKaG Sanjeevani Multispeciality Hospital. However, recent complaints regarding service quality have spurred the government to implement several critical improvements.
Key actions mandated by the Health Secretary include:
- Staffing Enhancements: The dialysis unit, currently capable of serving 22 patients at a time, will see an increase in staffing. Presently, six technicians manage the unit, with one technician assigned per three patients per shift. This number will soon be increased to seven to ensure more attentive care.
- Patient Comfort and Safety: Specific issues, such as patient discomfort and shivering during dialysis, will be addressed. It has been mandated that dialyzers be used only once per patient to reduce the risk of infections.
- Improved Medical Supervision: Regular visits by nephrologists to the dialysis unit have been mandated by Medical Superintendent Dr. Shankar Chakraborty. Additionally, steps are being taken to enhance patient care and supervision during dialysis.
- Facility Upgrades: The Health Secretary has directed Executive Engineer Nikhil Chandra Roy to undertake necessary renovations in the Medicine Ward and Eye Department at GBP Hospital. This includes increasing bed availability and installing additional stand fans to improve patient comfort.
- Quality Assurance: Samples of dialysis water have been sent for quality testing at the DWS office. The Infection Control Committee of Agartala Government Medical College and GBP Hospital has been tasked with conducting bi-weekly inspections to minimize the risk of catheter infections.
To oversee these efforts, an inquiry committee has been established, led by Dr. Rajesh Kishore Devavarma, Professor of Medicine. The committee will investigate the complaints and recommend further measures to ensure the safety and well-being of patients undergoing dialysis in the state.
This decisive action reflects the Tripura government’s commitment to improving healthcare standards and ensuring that patient care remains a top priority.
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