In a significant move to enhance professionalism and improve patient care, the Tripura government has instituted a mandatory dress code for doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, and other health workers in hospitals during duty hours. The government has issued a stern warning, emphasizing the strict consequences that will follow in the event of non-compliance with this order.
A recent circular from the government explicitly states, “As official and designated responsible persons in the hospital, staff must adhere to the appropriate dress code standardized nationwide for their roles. Additionally, they are required to display a nameplate and wear an identity card, essential for easy identification.”
The circular further underscores that any disregard for this directive will be met with severe consequences. Despite existing norms, doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and other health staff have not consistently adhered to the prescribed dress code. Notably, medical superintendents and even some doctors often forego wearing aprons.
According to reports, Chief Minister Manik Saha, who also oversees the health portfolio, became aware of a significant number of health workers, including doctors in government hospitals and medical colleges, engaging in personal activities during duty hours and frequently remaining absent from their designated areas.
Instances of misbehavior with patients and providing misguided information were also reported in institutions such as Agartala Government Medical College, the state referral hospital IGM, and district hospitals across the state. The lack of a standardized dress code and absence of nameplates made it challenging for patients and their relatives to identify and report instances of misconduct.
The move to enforce a mandatory dress code is aimed at instilling a sense of professionalism, accountability, and easy identification within the healthcare system. By doing so, the Tripura government hopes to create a more conducive environment for patients and their families, ensuring a higher level of transparency and accountability among health workers.
