PANAJI
On the occasion of World Health Day (April 7), Goa Civic and Consumer Action Network (Goacan) has called for the urgent framing of rules for The Goa Clinical Establishments (Registration & Regulation) Act 2019. In a letter to the directorate of Health Services (DHS) director Dr Jose De Sa, Goacan has pointed out that although the Act was passed by the Legislative Assembly of Goa on 09-08-2019 and assented to by the Governor of Goa on 19-09-2019 it has still not been enforced in the State mainly due to the delay in the framing of the Rules.
Goacan letter specifies to ensure the framing of the rules so that the consumers in Goa can be protected from fake doctors and those trying to dispense medicines and operate health clinics without any qualifications, registration or authorisation in the State. It may be noted that with The Goa Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act 2019 being enacted, the Goa Medical Practitioners Rules 2011 are no more in operation in the State.
Goacan in its letter has further pointed out, that the Order dated 30/01/2017 issued by the DHS director as competent authority, designating the Health Officers /Medical Officer i/c of CHCs/PHCs/UHCs as inspecting authority to carry out the provisions of the Goa Medical Practitioners Rules 2011 and to file a police case whenever required under Section 16 of the Act, stands revoked.
However, as this revocation has not been communicated in writing to all the Health Officers /Medical Officers i/c of CHCs/PHCs/UHCs and also to the Goa Police department, Goacan says it must be issued urgently. Copies of the Goacan letter have been sent to the chief secretary, health secretary, respective collectors and district magistrates, director general (DG) of Goa Police and the directors of Urban Development, Panchayats, civil supplies and consumer affairs.
