Health Ministry constitutes National Task Force on Healthcare Worker Safety [Current Affairs]

The Health Ministry has formed a 14-member National Task Force (NTF) to address the safety and working conditions of medical professionals in India. In response to ongoing protests and as mandated by the Supreme Court, the NTF will develop recommendations focused on preventing violence against healthcare workers and establishing national protocols for dignified and safe working conditions across the medical profession.

Key Objectives and Focus Areas

The NTF’s primary focus will include creating an action plan to prevent violence against medical professionals and ensuring safe working conditions. This includes setting protocols for the safety of interns, residents, senior residents, doctors, nurses, and other medical staff. The task force is also tasked with addressing sexual violence within medical establishments and ensuring compliance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.

Immediate Actions and Infrastructure Development

The NTF is required to submit an interim report within three weeks and a final report within two months from the Supreme Court’s order dated August 20, 2024. The task force will also propose measures for enhancing security in hospitals, such as identifying high-risk areas, implementing screening systems, and preventing entry of intoxicated individuals. Additionally, recommendations will include infrastructure improvements like separate resting and duty rooms and the formation of “Employees Safety Committees” for quarterly safety audits.

Task Force Composition and Support

The NTF will be led by the Cabinet Secretary, with members including key officials from the Union Health and Home Ministries, the National Medical Commission, and prominent medical institutions across India. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will provide logistical support, including travel, stay, and secretarial assistance for the task force members.

Background and Context

The formation of the NTF follows a tragic incident in Kolkata, where the rape and murder of a doctor inside a state-owned hospital sparked nationwide protests. The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducting a probe and expected to submit a status report soon. The task force’s recommendations are expected to address the urgent need for better security and working conditions in medical establishments across the country.