Upalokayukta flags poor upkeep and expired medicines at Chikkodi hospital

Upalokayukta B. Veerappa conducted a surprise inspection of the Taluk Hospital at Chikkodi in Belagavi district on Thursday, during which he flagged several deficiencies in the facility's upkeep and services.

The visit covered multiple sections of the hospital, including the blood bank and the medicine storage unit. Mr. Veerappa observed that the premises were in a state of disarray and interacted with patients to understand the quality of facilities and services available to them.

He expressed dissatisfaction that the hospital was not being maintained properly despite government grants being provided for cleanliness and upkeep. Officials were directed to take immediate steps to improve cleanliness and ensure proper maintenance of the premises.

The Upalokayukta also raised concerns about the supply of medicines. He noted that not all prescribed medicines and tablets were being given to patients, and that expired medicines were being dispensed. He instructed doctors and Health Department officials to set up separate medicine distribution counters for men, women and persons with disabilities at the hospital's pharmacy.

Officials concerned were directed to rectify the issues and ensure quality treatment for the public.

Lokayukta Superintendent of Police Prasanna Desai, Additional Deputy Commissioner Vijayakumar Honakeri, Assistant Commissioner S.S. Sampagavi, Zilla Panchayat Planning Director Ravi Bangarappanavara, tahsildar R.R. Burli and District Health and Family Welfare Officer Eshwar Gadad were present during the visit.