Panchkula: In an effort to manage overwhelming patient crowds, Panchkula Civil Hospital has introduced a numbering system in its Outpatient Department (OPD) after the previous token system failed to control the rush.
The initiative has been piloted in the paediatric department, with plans for hospital-wide implementation if successful.
Why the Change?
- The previous token system proved ineffective due to the large influx of patients, many of whom were impatient and unmanageable.
- Daily OPD footfall ranges from 4,000 to 5,000 patients, including 50-60% from outside Panchkula, making crowd management challenging.
- Patients previously had to stand for long hours in chaotic queues outside doctors’ rooms with no clear system for turn-taking.
How the Numbering System Works
1️⃣ Patients first register at the OPD counters to receive registration cards.
2️⃣ In the concerned department, they are allotted numbers on their cards.
3️⃣ An attendant announces the numbers in sequence, allowing patients to wait comfortably until their turn.
4️⃣ This eliminates crowding outside consultation rooms and enables better organization.
Officials & Patient Feedback
Dr. Mukta Kumar, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), stated:
“Managing the crowd has been a persistent challenge. The previous token system failed due to practical difficulties. If the numbering system proves effective in the paediatric wing, we will expand it across all departments.”
However, patients continue to face difficulties at the registration counters.
- Long waiting times remain a major concern, with queues stretching for hours.
- Some hospital staff have been accused of rudeness, adding to patient frustration.
- Attendants demand more staff at OPD counters to speed up registrations.
Raju, an attendant, shared his frustration:
“I have been standing for an hour to get a registration card. The hospital must deploy more staff and improve management, not just at the department level but also at OPD counters.”
Looking Ahead
- If the numbering system succeeds, it will be rolled out across all departments.
- Hospital authorities may consider increasing staff at OPD counters to improve registration efficiency.
- Further modifications might be needed based on patient and staff feedback.
The move is a step toward reducing patient distress, but additional improvements are required for a smooth hospital experience.
