Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Nov 17: Former minister Krishna J Palemar demanded compensation for the deaths happened due to doctor’s strike in the state this week.

He was speaking to reporters in a press meet held in city on Friday, November 17.

"Government has no right to fix charges for private facilities. Presently private doctors and health-institutions are charging patients based on the treatment, which is not available elsewhere. Government only has the right to check the quality of private hospitals. It can also take action against a hospital if any cheating happens there," Palemar said.

“The KPME bill is full of many conditions. Government itself does not have a clear idea about this bill. Private hospitals are providing various types of facilities and high class treatments to the patients. The services are also provided as per the patients’ wish. If someone requires an American surgeon for treatment, a hospital is making all arrangements for that. It costs more than a local surgeon’s fee in this case. Then how can they charge as per government’s order?” he questioned.

“Government should rethink on KPME bill and immediately it should release Rs 10 lac for the family members who lost their dear ones during doctors’ strike,” he demanded.

He also urged that the doctors to try to oppose the bill using some other ways than by observing strike. “Humanity is important. They should look at the matters from poor people’s angle as they cannot afford huge amounts for medicine. In this situation doctors and hospitals should help the poor patients." Palemar said.