Mumbai: In a pioneering initiative, the state government plans to introduce separate toilet and bathing facilities for relatives accompanying patients at government hospitals. This move aims to address the ongoing concerns about the lack of proper amenities, especially for women.
57 Health Institutions to Benefit from the New Facilities
The health department will implement the new policy across 57 health institutions, including 12 hospitals with 200-bed capacities and 45 hospitals with 100-bed capacities. A total of Rs. 409.2 crore has been allocated for both the construction and maintenance of these facilities.
Nominal Fees to Cover Operational Costs
Under the new policy, the charges for using the facilities will be capped at Rs. 5 per person for toilet use and Rs. 10 per person for bathing. Accommodation will cost Rs. 100 per person for up to 20 hours. Officials stress that these nominal fees are designed to keep the facilities accessible while covering the operational costs.
Addressing Long-Standing Concerns of Patients’ Relatives
For years, relatives, particularly women, have struggled with inadequate facilities at government hospitals. A senior official from the health department acknowledged the widespread complaints and emphasized that this initiative would provide secure, accessible accommodations and separate washrooms.
Personal Accounts Highlight the Need for Change
Many families have faced significant hardship due to the absence of separate bathroom facilities. Anagha Sawant from Palghar shared her personal experience, stating that she and her mother had to stay in a hospital waiting area for days without access to toilets. They were forced to travel long distances to find a restroom, often relying on nearby shops for basic sanitation.
Improved Services for Patients and Visitors
The initiative also ensures that essential services like drinking water, soap, and regular cleaning will be available for both patients and their visitors. Public health expert Dr. Meenal Deshmukh praised the project, especially for the positive impact it would have on women accompanying patients.
Partnerships for Maintenance and Sanitation
The maintenance and security of the new facilities will be managed through partnerships with private organizations, with Sulabh International handling day-to-day upkeep. These partnerships aim to provide affordable rates for using the facilities.
Concerns Over the Cost for Low-Income Families
While the project has received support for its progressive goals, health activists have raised concerns over the charges. Dr. Gautam Rajput, a health activist at Lok Arogya Kendra in Gadchiroli, argued that the fees could be unaffordable for low-income families, such as farmers, who may not be able to bear the additional costs of sanitation and accommodation.
Expanding Access Beyond Hospital Complexes
In a bid to ensure greater accessibility, the project will extend its facilities beyond hospital complexes to nearby buildings and public spaces, ensuring that sanitation services are available to all visitors, including caregivers.
