RTH rules should be framed at the earliest: JSA

Along with this, “We also request that apart from doctors, effective participation of civil society organisations working in the health sector, public health experts, public representatives and various patient groups must be involved in this process.”

Following a people’s convention in Jaipur on Friday, where about 400 persons including civil society groups, community members, lawyers and public health experts from all over the state took part, the JSA has come up with a few suggestions for the state government.

First, it said that aligning with the basic spirit of the law the rules for every clause should be outlined in detail both numerically and qualitatively, so that their implementation can be done in a quick and hassle-free manner. Second, the state government should make adequate budgetary allocation for the implementation of the law.

Third, the state government must make provision for basic primary health services available within half an hour walking distance for anybody; full comprehensive primary health services which do not require hospitalisation of more than 24 hours within 12 kilometres; all emergency medical care including facility for blood transfusion in a distance which can be covered within one hour through any motorised vehicle; and all kinds of specialty and super specialty medical services within a distance of 150 kilometres.

Fourth, to make the grievance redressal mechanism more accessible, a grievance officer should be appointed in every health institution who can redress the grievance by taking immediate action on the complaint received.

Fifth, apart from the provision of filing complaints in writing, the patients must also be provided the option to file complaints against a health facility or a health care provider through a web portal or helpline.

Sixth, they said that participation of civil society, public health experts, public representatives and paramedical staff must be ensured in the District and State Health Authorities. Seventh, to increase community engagement around health issues, public dialogues and other programs should be organised regularly at local levels.

Last, it said that special campaigns should be launched to create awareness among people, especially those in the rural and remote areas, about the Act and the provisions therein. It added that JSA Rajasthan would be happy to assist the government in these processes.