Anantnag, Aug 15 (KNO): Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag has imposed strict restrictions on the entry and movement of Medical Representatives (MRs) in the Out Patient Department (OPD), wards and casualty areas of the institution and its associated hospitals during duty hours.
The decision, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), was taken after the college administration noticed that Medical Representatives were freely moving inside sensitive patient-care areas and, in some instances, were found checking patients’ prescriptions.
An order issued by the Principal, GMC reads that such activities were considered detrimental to patient care and hospital discipline. The administration observed that the presence and movement of MRs in clinical areas could interfere with the smooth functioning of healthcare services.
The order stated that Medical Representatives shall not enter or approach doctors or patients in OPDs, wards or casualty areas for promotional or professional purposes during duty hours.
The administration has, however, clarified that MRs may meet the concerned doctors after duty hours, provided such meetings do not cause any disturbance to patient care or the normal functioning of the hospital.
The restrictions cover OPDs, wards and casualty areas of GMC Anantnag as well as its associated hospitals, effectively placing a bar on promotional activities by pharmaceutical representatives in areas where patients are receiving treatment.
The Principal has directed all Heads of Departments, faculty members, consultants, resident doctors, outsourced security personnel and other concerned officials to ensure strict implementation of the order.
The administration has also warned that any violation of the instructions will be viewed seriously and may invite disciplinary action under the relevant rules.
The move is aimed at ensuring that clinical areas remain focused exclusively on patient care and that doctors and other healthcare professionals are able to discharge their duties without interruptions caused by promotional visits.
The restriction also comes amid the need to maintain greater discipline in busy OPDs, wards and emergency areas, where unrestricted movement of non-hospital personnel can potentially create inconvenience for patients, attendants and medical staff.
Security personnel and hospital authorities have been tasked with preventing unauthorised or promotional interactions involving Medical Representatives inside designated patient-care areas during duty hours—(KNO)