In a significant move that will help patients, State Health Minister Dr Dhan Singh Rawat said that government hospitals across the state will now be required to provide an explanation whenever a patient is referred to another facility. The decision was announced after a review meeting of the Ayushman Bharat and Atal Ayushman schemes held at the Health Directorate in Dehradun on Friday.
Our correspondent reports that the minister expressed concern over frequent referrals made by government hospitals, noting that several cases were being sent to private facilities even when treatment was available in public institutions. He said that unnecessary referrals burden families, delay treatment and weaken public trust.
Dr Rawat said, “Government hospitals must build confidence among patients. Referring people without a valid reason will not be tolerated.” Our correspondent adds that the minister emphasised that every referral must now be recorded formally, with the reason clearly stated in hospital registers.
He added, “If doctors send patients elsewhere despite having the required facilities, strict action will be taken.” He also said, “The government is investing heavily in strengthening public hospitals. It is the responsibility of the system to ensure patients receive timely treatment.”
During the meeting, the minister directed officials to ensure that specialists, nurses and essential staff are posted in all districts according to requirement. He instructed district health authorities to review referral patterns regularly and identify hospitals where frequent referrals are taking place.
Dr Rawat said, “The Ayushman schemes were launched so that the poorest families can access quality healthcare. These schemes will only be effective when government hospitals deliver services efficiently.” He further stated that any hospital failing to comply with the new rules would have to provide a written justification.
Officials present at the meeting said that the new directive aims to bring accountability, standardise referral procedures and ensure that government hospitals remain the primary point of care for Ayushman beneficiaries. They added that new guidelines would soon be circulated to all districts.
The Health Department said that monitoring systems will be strengthened to ensure hospitals follow referral protocols and maintain updated patient records. Authorities noted that the goal is to minimise unnecessary referrals and improve treatment outcomes within government facilities.
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He added, “If doctors send patients elsewhere despite having the required facilities, strict action will be taken.” He also said, “The government is investing heavily in strengthening public hospitals. It is the responsibility of the system to ensure patients receive timely treatment.”
