Delhi govt orders action against Fortis after probe flags patient care lapses; hospital assures full cooperation

Delhi authorities are set to take action against Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, after a district administration probe uncovered significant lapses in patient care and other alleged irregularities. The government's decision follows a complaint lodged during a Chief Minister's public hearing.

The complaint, brought to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, alleged that a stabbing victim was denied prompt medical attention and was required to make a payment before treatment could commence. This prompted an immediate inquiry, with inspection teams comprising officials from various departments, including the Health Department and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, visiting the hospital.

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Fortis remains committed to the highest standards of patient care, clinical excellence, and regulatory compliance. We will review the details once formally shared with us and extend our full cooperation to the authorities. Patient safety and well-being continue to be our foremost priority.

During the inspection, officials reportedly found multiple violations. CCTV footage allegedly showed the injured man walking into the emergency department unaided, suggesting that timely intervention might have been crucial. The probe also reportedly uncovered breaches of building by-laws, unauthorized construction, deficiencies in fire safety systems, misuse of basement areas, and serious non-compliance with medical protocols and standard operating procedures.

In response to the findings, the Delhi government announced its intention to initiate action against the hospital. The Chief Minister's Office emphasized that all hospitals in Delhi are obligated to provide responsible and ethical care, stating that there can be no compromise on a patient's right to timely and dignified treatment. Fortis Hospital, in a statement, assured its full cooperation with the authorities, reiterating its commitment to the highest standards of patient care and clinical excellence.

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Any irregularity established during the inquiry shall invite strict action. Every hospital in Delhi is duty-bound to serve patients with responsibility and integrity, and there can be no compromise with a patient's right to timely and dignified treatment.