Punjab Government Issues Human Rights-Focused Directive to All Healthcare Institutions
In a significant move aimed at safeguarding human dignity and protecting human rights, the Punjab Government has directed all government and private hospitals, nursing homes, and clinical establishments across the state not to withhold dead bodies due to non-payment of hospital bills or any other pending dues.
The directive was issued by the Director, Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, following guidelines issued by the Punjab State Human Rights Commission (PSHRC). The order makes it mandatory for all healthcare institutions to release deceased persons’ bodies without delay, irrespective of any outstanding financial liabilities.
Hospitals Directed to Display Public Notices
As part of the directive, hospitals have been instructed to prominently display notices in Punjabi, Hindi, and English at casualty wards, mortuaries, and reception areas. The notices must clearly state that dead bodies will not be retained due to unpaid bills and should also provide details of the state health helpline number 104 for grievance redressal.
Focus on Mortuary Safety and Cold-Chain Management
The Health Department has also sought immediate compliance reports from healthcare institutions regarding mortuary cold-chain management and electrical safety systems. Authorities reiterated earlier instructions mandating strict adherence to cold-chain protocols, appointment of dedicated electrical nodal officers, and installation of digital temperature monitoring and alert systems in mortuaries.
Training Programmes for Medical Officers
To strengthen medico-legal services, the department has proposed specialized training and orientation programmes for medical officers within the next 90 days. These programmes, which will carry Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, will focus on medico-legal reporting, evidence sampling protocols, and the proper handling and management of dead bodies.
Digital Medico-Legal Reporting Made Mandatory
The Punjab Health Department has further directed all medical institutions to issue medico-legal and post-mortem reports exclusively through the digital MedLEaPR portal. The issuance of handwritten or unofficial medico-legal documents has been strictly prohibited to enhance transparency and accountability.
Strengthening Transparency and Dignity in Healthcare
The latest measures are aimed at improving transparency in healthcare administration, strengthening medico-legal systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and upholding the dignity of deceased individuals and their families. The initiative reinforces the state’s commitment to protecting fundamental human rights while enhancing the quality and accountability of healthcare services.
