The response of private hospitals for reserving 50% beds for Covid-19 patients has not been satisfactory and the government may have to initiate legal action against those who failed to comply with the orders, warned Karnataka Health & Medical Education Minister Dr K. Sudhakar.
Speaking to the media here on Sunday after inspecting SAKRA hospitals, Dr Sudhakar said the inspection was to check whether the hospitals are complying with the government orders to reserve 50% beds for Covid patients. Manipal Hospital has not provided 50% beds. Strict instructions have been given to the hospital. Legal action will be initiated if they fail to obey the orders. Let us not land in such a situation, said the Health Minister.
“Private hospitals are facing a shortage of infrastructure and human resource. We are considering all the issues while managing the situation. There may be shortcomings but we are trying to address all issues. We are prioritising the supply of oxygen, Remdesivir, and other drugs. An increase in beds and temporary arrangements in hotels are being made,” said Dr Sudhakar.
“There is no dearth of oxygen in the state. Zonal officers have been deployed to manage the issue. The Centre has approved 300 tonnes of oxygen in addition to 800 tonnes production capacity presently available in the state. Industries have assured to supply sufficient quantity of oxygen whenever required,” he added.
Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai and Revenue Minister R.Ashok held an informal meeting to review the Covid situation in Bengaluru, said the Health Minister. Dr Sudhakar informed that tougher and stringent measures are necessary in Bengaluru to control the second wave. This will be decided after an all-party meeting tomorrow. The Chief Minister will decide after a detailed discussion with leaders. The second wave is fast spreading and people have to exercise precautionary measures. He added, “We will ramp up beds based on the prevailing situation. Private hospitals must join hands with the government in this fight against the pandemic.”