Mumbai: In response to a complaint filed by a local group demanding improved healthcare facilities at M.A. Poddar Ayurved Hospital in Worli, authorities have submitted a proposal to the government for establishing a modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU) based on the allopathic system of medicine. The proposal includes plans to create 35 new medical staff posts and procure the necessary equipment to make the ICU operational.

In January 2024, the Mumbai-based group filed a complaint with the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), seeking directions to improve conditions at Poddar Hospital. The group alleged that the hospital lacked essential services and proper instruments to handle emergency cases.

The SHRC took cognizance of the complaint and directed the Principal Secretary, Public Health Department, and the Dean of Poddar Hospital to file detailed replies.

In their submissions, the authorities acknowledged the limitations of Ayurvedic medicine in treating critical patients in emergency situations. They proposed the establishment of an allopathic ICU to cater to the needs of Worli residents and other patients as well.

The SHRC, while disposing of the complaint, noted: “The Ayurved system of medicine has its own limitations in treating critical patients in emergencies. Citizens in Worli expect an Intensive Care Unit that can be useful for such cases. Setting up an allopathic ICU affiliated with the new Medical College and G.T. Hospital, Mumbai, is seen as the best solution.”

The Commissioner of Medical Education and Research submitted the proposal on July 10, 2024, which is now pending government approval. The ICU will have a 30-bed capacity, requiring 35 medical staff, including associate professors, medical officers, nurses, pediatric nurses, and cleaning personnel.

Deputy Secretary of the Medical Education and Drugs Department, Ms. Shwetambari Khade, stated in an affidavit dated September 5, 2024: “The creation of these posts needs prior approval from the Finance Department, High Power Committee, or Government. Once approved, recruitment will be conducted by competent authorities such as the Maharashtra Public Service Commission.”

The affidavit also mentioned that setting up the ICU, including creating posts, recruitment, and procuring machinery, would take approximately 1.5 to 2 years. However, the department assured efforts to expedite the process.