AAP questions Tiwari’s support for Max Hospital

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 11

Minister and Aam Aadmi Party state convenor Gopal Rai today not only questioned Bharatiya Janata Party state chief Manoj Tiwari over his support to the Max Hospital authorities on the licence cancellation issue, but also acknowledged the “key” role of private hospitals in the city’s public healthcare system, saying that the Delhi Government stands firmly with the medical fraternity of the capital.

The remark also comes days after the Delhi Medical Association threatened of proceeding on strike opposing the government’s move to cancel the licence of Max Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, on account of medical negligence in wrongly declaring a premature twin dead.

Addressing reporters here Rai said, “The Delhi Government stands with private hospitals, doctors, other staff, because they are an important part of city’s healthcare system and provide their crucial services to the people of the city. However, the government has to take strong action against repeat offenders like Max Hospital, Shalimar Bagh.”

The government’s action against Max Hospital was a consequence of repeated instances of negligence and violation of rules on the part of the hospital management, Rai underlined.

“We have made private hospitals a part of city’s public health infrastructure, since there are several essential services that are provided at private hospitals for which the Delhi Government foots the expenses. But when a hospital violates norms, the government will take necessary steps in the interest of justice,” Rai asserted.

He criticised the BJP state chief alleging a deal between him and the Max Hospital management.