DRAFT BILL FOR PROTECTION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS AWAITING CENTRE’S NOD

DRAFT BILL FOR PROTECTION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS AWAITING CENTRE’S NOD

Why in the news?

A proposed bill that would protect healthcare professionals is pending approval from the national government, particularly in light of the increasing number of violent attacks against them. The past five years have seen consideration of the draft.

Details of the Draft Bill

  • Title: The 2019 Health Services Personnel and Clinical Establishments (Prohibition of Violence and Damage to Property) Bill.
  • Goal: The measure aims to give healthcare professionals legal defense against violence and property damage. It suggests severe consequences for anyone who harm medical staff, such as fines and incarceration.
  • Status: The measure has not become legislation despite the medical community’s continuous requests for it to be. It has been made clear by the government that it is not pursuing this proposed legislation at this time.

About the Indian Medical Association

(IMA)

  • Establishment: With more than 3,00,000 members nationwide, the IMA was founded in 1928 and is currently the largest association of doctors in India.
  • Role: The IMA is an advocate for medical professionals’ rights, covering matters pertaining to medical education, workplace safety, and ethical standards.
  • Recent Activities: The IMA has been vigorously advocating for the bill’s approval, especially in view of the rising number of attacks on medical personnel that have been occurring during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Healthcare Sector in India

  • Workforce: Approximately 3.7 million nurses and midwives and over 2.7 million doctors are employed in India’s healthcare industry.
  • Obstacles: The industry must overcome obstacles such a high patient-to-doctor ratio, poor infrastructure, and an increase in violence against healthcare personnel.