The Rajasthan health department has implemented a significant initiative to enhance the quality of care at hospitals affiliated with the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College in Jaipur. Every admitted patient will now be under the close supervision of senior doctors.
Jaipur: Patients at hospitals associated with the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College, one of the state's most prestigious medical institutions, are set to receive improved care. The health department has mandated that senior doctors conduct twice-daily rounds to ensure transparency, seriousness, and quality of treatment.
Why the Change?
In recent months, numerous complaints were received from patients and their families regarding the infrequent and sometimes inadequate presence of senior doctors. This led to treatment delays and reliance on junior doctors even in complex cases. This prompted the college administration and health department to implement this crucial decision.
What are the New Regulations?
All senior doctors are now required to conduct ward rounds twice daily – in the morning and afternoon.
- First Round: Between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM
- Second Round: Between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM
During these rounds, doctors will personally assess the patient's condition, treatment progress, medication effectiveness, and any necessary adjustments.
Benefits for Patients:
- Critically ill patients will receive expert consultations twice daily.
- Treatment issues can be addressed promptly.
- Junior doctors will receive improved guidance.
- Family members can directly inquire with senior doctors.
Administrative Preparations:
The SMS Medical College administration has initially implemented this change in the Medicine, Surgery, Neurology, and Orthopedics departments. The policy will be rolled out to other departments within the next month. Doctor schedules have been adjusted to avoid overburdening any individual.
Dean Dr. Rajiv Bhatnagar stated, “Our goal is to provide patients with the highest quality medical care. Increasing the frequency of rounds will improve communication between doctors and patients, and allow for timely monitoring of critical cases.”
Strengthened Monitoring and Reporting System
Following each round, doctors will update a digital platform with details of patients seen, treatment changes made, and recommendations provided. This will improve medical record management and ensure accountability in case of negligence.
Relatives of patients are enthusiastic about the new system. The son of patient Naresh Gupta commented, “Previously, we had to wait numerous times to see the doctor. Now, with two daily rounds, we'll have peace of mind knowing the treatment is progressing correctly.”
