DGHS orders private hospitals to admit measles patients
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) today instructed all private hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country to ensure admission and treatment services for measles and suspected measles patients.
The health authorities have also directed private healthcare facilities to establish separate wards or cabins for patients with measles and its symptoms to prevent the spread of infection and ensure proper patient management.
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The directive came following allegations that several private hospitals were refusing to admit or treat patients suffering from measles or showing symptoms of the disease.
According to the instructions, all private healthcare facilities must admit and provide treatment to measles and suspected measles patients without refusal.
Hospitals have also been asked to coordinate with local government healthcare institutions in managing such cases.
Citing the Private Medical College and Dental College Act-2021, DGHS said private medical college hospitals are required to keep at least 10 percent of their beds reserved free of charge for poor patients.
The authorities have now instructed that half of those reserved beds must be allocated for measles and suspected measles patients.
For example, a 250-bed hospital will have to reserve at least 12 beds for such patients, the directive said.
Hospitals were also asked to display the information prominently at emergency departments and inquiry desks.
The directive further said that only one guardian or visitor will be allowed to stay with each admitted patient.
Abu Hussain Md Moinul Ahsan, director (hospital) of DGHS confirmed the matter to The Daily Star.
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