Rein in private hosps overcharging dengue patients: Nadda to Delhi govt

New Delhi: The Union Health Ministry today asked Delhi Government to rein in private hospitals overcharging dengue patients as the national capital battled the worst outbreak of the disease in the past five years.

"I have asked Delhi Government to see that private hospitals do not charge unwarrantedly and that they should take reasonable fees from the patients," Health Minister J P Nadda said.

According to official data, the total number of cases between January 1 and September 12 now stands at 1,872, which is highest for the period in the last five years.

Nadda said that government has been constantly monitoring the situation and medical facilities.

"We have been reviewing dengue situation. Round-the-clock vigil is there. Today also, we had a meeting with the Medical Superintendent of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdargunj Hospital and Lady Harding Medical College," he said.

The hospitals have been asked to increase the number of beds in order to meet to the rush of dengue patients.

"We have asked them to increase the bed strength. They have been told not to refuse any dengue patient and see that he is being properly treated. We have enough testing kits and medical expert facilities," he said.

He said that the state administration has also been asked to take strict action against hospitals turning down dengue patients.

"I held a meeting with the Delhi Health Minister and asked him to take strict action against hospitals refusing dengue patients. They have been asked to submit a report on the actions taken. We have also assured that whatever support they need will be given," Nadda said.