CM to launch SWAGAT app on Good Governance Day

Ahmedabad | Dec 24, 2024 | 6 min read

CM to launch SWAGAT app on Good Governance Day

On Good Governance Day, December 25, 2024, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will officially launch the SWAGAT Mobile App, a significant upgrade to the state’s online grievance redressal program.  The app will make the SWAGAT platform more efficient and accessible, allowing citizens to register complaints and track their resolution status directly from their mobile phones. Expanding reach The SWAGAT program has successfully expanded from the state level to the district, taluka, and village levels. It has built strong public confidence in the government’s commitment to resolving citizen grievances promptly. With the upcoming launch of SWAGAT 2.0, the program will take another major step forward, incorporating advanced technology for greater transparency and responsiveness. Auto escalation matrix A key feature of the revamped program is the Auto Escalation Matrix. Initially introduced as a pilot project in 2023 in the Revenue and Panchayat departments and in the Patan and Kheda districts, the pilot’s positive outcomes have led the CM to expand the method to all departments and districts starting on Good Governance Day 2024. ​​​​​​​ The SWAGAT Mobile App is designed to empower citizens by enabling them to file complaints at the district and taluka levels using their mobile numbers. In addition to registering complaints, users can track the status of their applications and provide feedback on the actions taken to address their concerns.  

New SOPs out for  PMJAY procedures

Ahmedabad | Dec 24, 2024 | 13 min read

New SOPs out for PMJAY procedures

State Health Minister Rushikesh Patel on Monday announced new stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for procedures under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)-MA scheme at empanelled hospitals to prevent malpractices and ensure transparency. These updated guidelines focus on cardiology, oncology, neonatal care and arthroplasty. The move comes in the wake of the Khyati Hospital case where two patients died after botched-up angioplasty. The hospital was found to have carried out angioplasty procedures despite no medical necessity and also categorised them as “emergency” to expedite government approval. Numerous complaints of criminal intent and malpractice by some private hospitals have been recorded since the Khyati hospital case came to light.  In 2024 alone, 14 hospitals were suspended, de-equipped and fined for violations. A total fine of Rs 18 crore has been imposed, highlighting the government’s zero-tolerance policy against unethical practices. Ensuring patient safety, ensuring accountability The Gujarat government has taken additional measures to ensure accountability. Doctors involved in violations have been permanently removed from the scheme, with the Medical Council initiating further actions where necessary. Patel also highlighted that the government is actively working to improve oversight mechanisms. An online portal for hospital inspections will soon be operational, allowing authorities to monitor and evaluate hospital compliance effectively. ​​​​​​​ Key changes under the new protocols: Cardiology Empanelled hospitals must upload CD or videography of angiography and angioplasty for pre-authorisation. For emergencies, hospitals are required to upload the footage after the procedure.   Oncology (Cancer care) Treatment plans must be certified by a tumor board comprising a medical oncologist, surgical oncologist and radiation oncologist. Hospitals providing brachytherapy for cancers, including cervical and vaginal, must have in-house facilities or formal tie-ups with other hospitals. For Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), hospitals must use Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging, ensuring precision treatment. Records must adhere to quality control standards. Neonatal care Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) must install CCTV cameras while ensuring privacy for mothers. Taluka Health Officers are required to conduct periodic inspections and submit reports to a soon-to-be-launched online portal. Full-time pediatricians and adequate nursing staff must be available, aligning with patient-bed ratios.   Arthroplasty Hospitals performing total knee replacement (TKR) and total hip replacement (THR) surgeries must also treat at least 30 percent of orthopedic and polytrauma cases. Failure to meet this ratio for nine consecutive months will lead to suspension from the specialty. In 2024, 75 hospitals were fined Rs 3.51 crore for non-compliance.  

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