Key Norms for Clinical Establishments in West Bengal
Infrastructure Requirements
Clinical establishments must operate in structurally sound buildings with adequate ventilation, lighting, water supply, and sanitation.
The premises must be clean, hygienic, and suitable for clinical activities.
Basic Facilities
Clean drinking water and a waiting area for patients.
Adequate toilet facilities for patients, attendants, and staff.
Wheelchair access, especially for establishments offering inpatient care.
Staffing Norms
Medical and paramedical staff must hold valid registrations under respective councils (e.g., Medical Council, Nursing Council).
Support staff must be adequately trained in patient handling, hygiene, and basic emergency response.
Record Keeping
Maintain records of all patients including registration, diagnosis, treatment, discharge/referral, and follow-ups.
Display of charges for different services must be transparent and updated regularly.
Biomedical Waste Disposal
Clinical establishments must have proper tie-ups with authorized waste management agencies for disposal of biomedical waste.
The process must follow the rules prescribed under the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016.
Fire and Electrical Safety
Install necessary fire-fighting equipment and obtain a Fire NOC.
Ensure the building complies with basic electrical safety norms to prevent accidents.
Display of Information
Every establishment must prominently display:
Name of the establishment
Registration certificate
Names and qualifications of doctors
Services offered
Rates for key services
Complaint redressal mechanism
Conclusion
Adhering to these norms is not just a legal necessity but a critical component of ethical and quality medical care. Clinical establishments must periodically review their compliance status and renew registrations to avoid penalties or closure. This framework by the Government of West Bengal ensures patients receive standardized, safe, and transparent healthcare services.