The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi has rolled back its earlier decision to close OPD services until 2:30 pm on January 22 on the occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. Following significant public criticism, the Outpatient Department will now operate throughout the entire day on Monday. A fresh office memorandum clarified that this change aims to avoid inconveniencing patients with appointments and to ensure continued patient care.
The updated memorandum, in reference to the circular issued on January 20, emphasises the commitment to keeping the outpatient department accessible to patients with scheduled appointments. The decision underscores the institution's dedication to preventing any disruption in patient services. Critical clinical care services will also continue without interruption, maintaining the medical facility's essential operations.
Previously, an office order from AIIMS, Delhi, had cited the government's declaration of a half-day holiday on January 22 due to the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. However, in response to the public outcry, AIIMS has chosen to reverse its stance, prioritizing the healthcare needs of the community.
In a similar vein, Lady Hardinge, Ram Manohar Lohia hospital, and Safdarjung Hospital have also reconsidered their decisions and will now remain open for the entire day on January 22. This collective change in approach among prominent medical institutions reflects a responsiveness to public concerns and a commitment to providing uninterrupted healthcare services during significant events.
The decisions of hospitals have been welcomed by all. People say that decision to keep hospitals working shows the sensitivity of the government. Patients would have suffered had government declared holiday on Monday.
“There are thousands of patients who have taken prior appointments and they would have come from different parts of the country. How can they be accommodated,” asked a patient who had booked an appointment with AIIMS on Monday.
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