PMC Cracks Down on Private Hospitals Demanding Advance Deposits for Emergency Treatment

Report by The Newsage Pune.

PMC Takes Drastic Measures to Improve Healthcare in Private Hospitals

In a bid to prevent delays in emergency medical care, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued notices to 860 private hospitals across the city, prohibiting them from demanding advance payments before providing treatment to critically ill patients.

The move follows public outrage after the recent death of pregnant woman Tanisha Bhise, allegedly denied treatment at a private hospital due to a Rs 10 lakh deposit demand. The civic health department stressed that any delay in life-saving treatment due to financial conditions is unacceptable.

After the tragic death of a pregnant woman due to medical negligence, the PMC has strictly warned 860 private medical institutes across the city to provide immediate assistance to critical patients even in situations of non-payment. Any delay in medical services has been stated to be morally as well as legally unacceptable.

As per the Bombay Nursing Home Act of 1949 and a Maharashtra government notification, all registered private medical facilities must offer immediate care without deposit demands during emergencies. Citizens are encouraged to report non-compliant hospitals by calling the PMC’s toll-free helpline: 1800 233 4151. The directive also mandates adherence to golden-hour treatment protocols to protect patients’ lives.