State Government Launches Historic Initiative to Provide Separate Toilets and Bathing Facilities for Family Members of Patients at Government Hospitals
In a groundbreaking move, the state government has announced plans to establish separate toilet and bathing facilities for relatives accompanying patients at government hospitals. The initiative aims to address long-standing concerns about the lack of adequate amenities for those accompanying patients, particularly women.
The health department has allocated Rs. 409.2 crore, covering both construction and maintenance costs, for the project, which will be implemented at 57 health institutions across the state, including 12 hospitals with 200-bed capacities and 45 hospitals with 100-bed capacities.
As per the new policy, fees will be capped at Rs 5 per person for toilet use and Rs 10 per person for bathing facilities. The accommodation charge will be Rs 100 per person for up to 20 hours. The government claims that the nominal fee structure aims to keep the facilities accessible while covering operational costs.
The absence of separate bathroom facilities for relatives at government hospitals has led to considerable hardship for families, particularly women. Many have had to resort to using nearby shops or traveling long distances to find sanitized facilities, exposing themselves to discomfort and risk.
The project also aims to ensure the availability of essential services such as drinking water, soap, and regular cleaning for both patients and visitors.
However, health activists have expressed concerns about imposing charges for these essential services, arguing that such facilities should be provided free of cost. They fear that charging families will push vulnerable populations further away from accessing basic sanitation facilities.
The state government has faced criticism over the years for not addressing this issue, and the initiative is seen as a step in the right direction towards improving patient care and ensuring dignity for family members accompanying patients.
As one resident shared her experience of having to wait days in hospital queues without proper facilities, "It's astonishing that families have had to endure such discomfort. Any progress in improving sanitation facilities for patients and caregivers will be welcomed," she said.
While the project is expected to provide immense relief to those affected, its success relies heavily on the government's willingness to ensure these facilities are accessible to all, regardless of economic status.
A spokesperson from Sulabh International, which will manage the units, added that ensuring affordability and accessibility was a priority.