Jharkhand’s Health Minister, Dr. Irfan Ansari, has taken a firm stance regarding a concerning incident at AIIMS Deoghar. A distressed patient was reportedly referred to RIMS in Ranchi without receiving adequate treatment at the Deoghar facility. The Health Minister has unequivocally stated that the reputation of AIIMS Deoghar, a crucial public service institution, will not be tarnished by negligence in patient care.
A recent press release detailed how the Minister received an emotional call late at night from a villager in Basanli, Deoghar district, pleading for help for her critically ill husband. Dr. Ansari immediately cancelled his prior engagements and traveled to the village to assess the situation personally. Upon arrival, he examined the patient, understood the gravity of the medical condition, and learned that the patient, from a poor tribal family, had been initially referred to AIIMS Deoghar. However, the patient was then sent to RIMS without receiving any treatment, leading to accusations from the family about inadequate care at AIIMS.
Expressing strong displeasure with the AIIMS management, the Minister highlighted that poor and tribal patients approach AIIMS with immense hope. Referring them elsewhere without treatment raises serious questions about the purpose and utility of the institution. He emphasized that repeatedly referring poor patients is a highly serious and troubling matter. If there are any deficiencies in medical facilities or resources, these must be clearly communicated.
Dr. Irfan Ansari declared his intention to visit AIIMS Deoghar himself to engage with the management and ensure accountability if necessary. Recognizing the urgency, he arranged for an immediate ambulance transfer of the patient to Ranchi. Financial assistance was also provided to the patient’s family to alleviate any financial burdens during the treatment period. Comprehensive arrangements have been made for the patient’s optimal care in Ranchi.
Responding to the gratitude expressed by villagers, the Health Minister stated that assisting those in need is his duty, not a favor. He reiterated that negligence in healthcare services will not be tolerated at any level, and ensuring better treatment for the poor and needy remains the government’s highest priority.
