Nahan hospital introduces visitor pass system for improved hygiene, security

In a decisive administrative reform aimed at improving patient care and maintaining hygiene standards, Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar, Government Medical College and Hospital, Nahan, has initiated a mandatory visitor pass system across all its wards. The new protocol mirrors the access control mechanisms already in place at top-tier institutions such as the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, and the Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla.

Under the new system, each inpatient will be entitled to two visitor passes, issued directly by the hospital administration. Only individuals possessing these passes will be permitted to meet the admitted patient during fixed visiting hours — between 1 am and 12.30 pm and 3 pm to 5.00 pm. Hospital authorities have clarified that even the patient’s attendant, who may remain with the patient for extended periods, must carry a valid pass. Outside of these hours, attendants will be permitted to deliver food or essential items but not remain inside the ward.

Medical Superintendent Dr Ajay Pathak described the move as “a necessary step toward restoring order, enhancing patient recovery, and mitigating risks of infection inside hospital premises.” Speaking to The Tribune, he said: “This policy is not just a matter of hospital discipline. It is an infection control measure and a security necessity. Whether in the general ward or the special ward, the rules will apply uniformly. Passes have already begun to be issued, and security staff have been briefed to create awareness among the public before full enforcement begins next week.”

Hospital wards, until now, witnessed unrestricted footfall, with several instances of overcrowding — a common sight, especially during visiting hours. Many visitors, often family members and acquaintances, were known to spend long hours inside wards, sometimes seated with patients until late at night. During doctors’ rounds, security guards had to routinely intervene to clear rooms, but most visitors returned shortly after, undermining patient privacy and treatment procedures.

Sources within the hospital administration revealed that special wards, which come at a premium, had become particularly difficult to regulate. “There have been instances where attendants refused to vacate the wards, arguing that their payments gave them unrestricted rights. This frequently led to arguments with security staff and disturbed the overall environment,” said a senior staff member.

According to hospital officials, the decision also stems from rising concerns around cross-infections. In a post-pandemic healthcare environment, infection control protocols have become more vital than ever. “A hospital is not just a treatment facility; it is also a vulnerable space. A visitor carrying a minor infection can pose serious risks to immune-compromised patients. Conversely, patients suffering from contagious diseases could inadvertently affect healthy visitors. This system is designed to minimize that risk,” said Dr Pathak.

The hospital has also faced sporadic incidents related to security breaches, thefts and altercations in recent months. A recent case involving physical assault on a hospital canteen operator further raised alarms regarding the need to regulate access more stringently. In response, the hospital has bolstered its on-ground security apparatus, deploying more guards and closely monitoring entry points.

Healthcare professionals at the hospital have welcomed the decision. “This will not only ensure a peaceful environment inside the wards but also help medical staff function more efficiently. Less crowding means better sanitation, faster response times during emergencies, and fewer distractions for patients,” said a senior nurse from the general ward.

The visitor pass system, though a logistical shift, has been largely welcomed by attendants and patients who see it as a sign of improving standards. “If it helps my father recover better and faster, I am happy to follow the rule,” said Sanjay Thakur, whose elderly parent is admitted in the cardiology ward.

As the system rolls out in full effect, hospital authorities have urged visitors and patients’ families to cooperate. Awareness efforts are underway, with security personnel stationed outside wards briefing visitors about the new norms. Leaflets and wall notices explaining the pass protocol are also being distributed across the hospital campus.