Pune: Taking serious note of a recent shortage of tetanus vaccines, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a show-cause notice to the medical superintendent of Jayabai Sutar Hospital and Maternity Home in Kothrud. The civic-run hospital reportedly faced an acute shortage for nearly five days, forcing patients to purchase the vaccine from private medical stores.
Hospital Accused of Failing to Report Stock Out
In its notice, PMC questioned why the head office was not informed about the depleted stock. The medical superintendent has been directed to submit a written explanation at the earliest. The civic body emphasised that timely communication about vaccine availability is the responsibility of the hospital administration.
Action Under Municipal Act if Explanation Unsatisfactory
Authorities have warned that failure to offer a satisfactory response may invite action under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949. The notice underscores the PMC’s stand on strict accountability within its healthcare facilities, especially in cases involving essential medicines and vaccines.
Shortage Highlighted After Media Report
The action follows a report published by HT, which revealed that patients visiting the PMC-run hospital were either turned away or asked to procure the tetanus injection themselves. Many had to leave without receiving the mandatory shot, a crucial preventive measure for those arriving with minor injuries, animal bites, or infected wounds.
Patients Forced to Buy Vaccines Privately
HT reported that several patients requiring urgent tetanus protection were compelled to buy the vaccine from private pharmacies due to the unavailability at the hospital. This raised concerns about accessibility and affordability, particularly for economically weaker patients dependent on public health services.
PMC Supplies Emergency Stock to Hospital
In response to the issue and the media coverage, PMC has now dispatched more than 1,000 doses of tetanus vaccines to Jayabai Sutar Hospital. The supply aims to stabilise the situation and ensure that no patient is denied essential vaccination in the coming days.
Health Officials Stress Responsibility of Hospital Heads
Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer and City Immunisation Officer of PMC, confirmed the issuance of the notice. He stated that it is the responsibility of the hospital head to monitor medicine and vaccine stock regularly and immediately alert the head office in case of shortages.
No Intimation Received Despite Stock Exhaustion
Dr. Dighe added that no request or communication was received from the hospital indicating that the tetanus vaccine stock had been exhausted. He reiterated that such lapses compromise patient safety and disrupt public health services, necessitating strict action to prevent a recurrence.
