Facilitate smooth movement of health staff: Govt to states
NEW DELHI:
The ministry of home Affairs has asked the state governments to ensure there are no restrictions on the movement of medical professionals and paramedical staff, saying curbs on them can lead to severe constraints in rendering COVID and non-COVID medical services.
There were reports of complaints from healthcare workers about local authorities and police not allowing their free movement during the ongoing lockdown.
In an order issued on Monday, the MHA asked states and Union territories to ensure that their field officials allow smooth movement of all medical professionals, nurses, paramedical, sanitation personnel and ambulances.
“...existing staff also have to render normal responsibilities, such as conducting immunisation programmes, handling the onset of vector and seasonal diseases, and meeting other nonCOVID emergencies,” it said.
The letter signed by home secretary Ajay Bhalla also said there were reports of private clinics and nursing homes not being allowed to open. “The functioning of these medical facilities is crucial. I would urge all states and UTs to ensure that such clinics and nursing homes continue to function,” the letter said.