Security to be beefed up in medical colleges in one week

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Strict regulations and security arrangements will be introduced in medical colleges within a week.

EffIicient securities will be appointed. They will be given a walkie-talkie. Security's number will be displayed to everyone. Security personnel should patrol.

An alarm will be set up to call summon security guards. The security system should act immediately to prevent attacks on hospitals. This will be ensured by conducting mock drills.

A counter will be opened to get the information of the patient in ICU etc. when requested by the relatives. A briefing room will be set up to discuss patient information with the bystanders.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Health Minister Veena George. The safety audit report after implementing these should be given to the Minister by the Director of Medical Education Department within a week.

The high-level meeting was based on the discussion held with the medical students who were on strike after the death of Dr Vandana Das.

Dr. Ratan Kelkar, Secretary of Medical Education Department, Dr. Thomas Mathew, Director of Medical Education Department, principals and superintendents of all medical colleges participated in the meeting.

• Only one bystander in wards and 2 people in the emergency department
• One more person can be allowed in essential stages.
• There should be a friendly atmosphere between patients and staff.
• Access to and from the hospital should be through a door to ensure safety. Lighting and security system should be ensured in corridors.