Rising number of deaths, increasing cases and shortage of ICU beds in the State has compelled the State to direct private hospitals to reserve 20 p.c of beds in ICU for COVID treatment.
The government directions also include a warning that those failing to comply may even face suspension of licence.
Health Secretary Nila Mohanan, said “all private hospitals which have an ICU functional units should be mandatorily keeping 20 p.c of ICU beds aside for COVID positive patients. If there is lack of compliance by any such private hospitals authorities will be forced to take necessary measures.”
She said the action may include suspension and cancellation of hospital licences by invoking the provisions of the Epidemic Regulations act.
Mohanan further said that the private hospitals will also have to share details of their charges for COVID treatment with the DHS.
“It has been decided that charges for the treatment at private hospitals for the room or other facility will have to be shared with the DHS. That will help us to see and monitor the rates,” she said adding “There is no cap fixed on charges so far”.
She also announced that the treatment for COVID in private hospitals will be covered under DDSSY health insurance scheme.
Three more deaths on Monday
The COVID 19 continued to wreck havoc in the State on Monday with the State recording three deaths and 130 new positive cases.
Dr Jose D’Sa said that there were 130 positive cases on Monday and 53 recoveries.
“One 47 year old female from mango hill, Vasco and one male of 60 years from Bellabai Vasco, who were admitted at COVID hospital Margao, with co-morbid conditions expired today. Also one male 58 years from Varnapuri Vasco, was brought dead at SDH Chicalim. His was found positive in during postmortem,” he said.
