Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 9: Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh on Saturday issued a stern warning to the heads of all government hospitals, urging them to address medicine shortages within 10 days amid persistent supply gaps and patient complaints.

Chairing a meeting at the Delhi Secretariat with medical directors and superintendents, Singh emphasized that hospital heads are directly responsible for ensuring that every patient receives proper treatment along with all essential medicines.

"Medical Directors and Medical Superintendents must ensure that every patient visiting the hospital receives proper treatment along with all essential medicines," Singh said.

He added, "It is the responsibility of medical directors and medical superintendents to send the complete demand for necessary medicines and medical equipment to the Central Procurement Agency within the stipulated period so that supply continues smoothly."

Officials stated that hospital heads have been given a ten-day deadline to submit their medicine and equipment requirements for the remaining financial year. The minister warned that failure to comply would invite strict action, highlighting ongoing accountability issues.

Singh cautioned that any hospital failing to maintain sufficient stock of medicines or consumables will be held accountable. He also noted that an efficient supply system for medicines, managed by the Central Procurement Agency, is already in place to ensure uninterrupted patient care.

The minister directed hospitals to monitor inventories daily and resort to emergency local purchases if needed. "Doctors and hospital management must treat every patient cordially and provide proper care in every way," he said.