Gandhi Hospital has taken significant steps to bolster its security and surveillance following recent incidents that raised concerns over staff and patient safety. With a budget of nearly Rs 20 lakh allocated by the Health Department, the hospital has installed 28 additional CCTV cameras, bringing the total count to 148, along with two plasma TVs in a newly established Command Control Room. This initiative aims to improve the security environment at the hospital, which sees daily foot traffic of 15,000 to 20,000 individuals.
The increased surveillance setup was part of an effort led by three recently appointed senior doctors, who have been instrumental in fast-tracking the project to address the urgent need for enhanced security. Junior doctors and hospital staff had previously raised concerns following thefts and incidents similar to the case at RG KAR Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, where hospital safety had come into question. Dr. K Sunil Kumar, Deputy Superintendent of Gandhi Hospital, noted that the installation of CCTV cameras was one of the top demands of the Junior Doctors Association, particularly to safeguard staff and facilities during nighttime hours.
“The installation of CCTV cameras was one of the primary demands of the Junior Doctor Associations,” Dr. Kumar shared. “It’s also essential for us to comply with guidelines from the National Medical Commission (NMC), which mandate surveillance in specific high-traffic areas.”
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Security measures at Gandhi Hospital have been bolstered by hiring a dedicated team to monitor the CCTV footage around the clock, ensuring quick response to incidents both within the hospital and in adjacent areas. Senior doctors expressed confidence that these upgrades will help prevent theft and other issues, ultimately fostering a safer environment for patients, staff, and visitors alike.
The need for a robust security setup has become more pressing, as recent incidents highlight the risks faced by hospital personnel. A week ago, a handbag containing a mobile phone and tablet was stolen from a house surgeon working in the emergency department. Investigation later revealed that a patient had stolen the bag, underscoring the need for heightened surveillance and prompt action.
Beyond security upgrades, the hospital also plans to increase its engagement with the public by launching an official social media account on X (formerly Twitter). Through this platform, Gandhi Hospital will share updates on successful surgeries and other achievements, enhancing its transparency and connection with the public.
This multi-layered approach to safety and communication aligns with Gandhi Hospital’s dedication to maintaining high standards amidst the challenges posed by high foot traffic and increasing security demands. As the hospital continues to serve a large number of patients and their attendants each day, the new surveillance system is expected to act as a deterrent against potential criminal activities, including the recent spate of vehicle thefts in the doctors’ parking area.
With the additional cameras and dedicated monitoring, hospital officials are hopeful that these measures will help mitigate security risks and ensure Gandhi Hospital remains a safe, reliable healthcare facility for Hyderabad’s residents.
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