To streamline the treatment options available to MPs, AIIMS Delhi has created a number of standard operating procedures (SOPs), including the appointment of a nodal officer to oversee and facilitate medical care arrangements. The action, however, has been harshly criticized by a group of doctors who have criticized the “VIP culture” at the premier medical institute. In a letter to YM Kandpal, joint secretary at the Lok Sabha Secretariat, AIIMS director M Srinivas outlined recent SOPs for the outpatient department (OPD), emergency consultation, and inpatient hospitalization of sitting MPs from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
However, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) questioned the decision, pointing out that the MPs’ unique privilege might come at the expense of regular patients. In a tweet, it stated, “We reject the VIP culture. No patient should be made to suffer because of someone else’s privileges. Having said that, using a routine to expedite procedures shouldn’t be seen negatively so long as it doesn’t compromise patient care.” The AIIMS director stated in the letter that the MP’s staff can reach the officer on duty by calling 011-26589279, 011-26593308, 011-26593574, or 9868397016. The letter stated that the officer, who is also a licenced medical practitioner, will arrange an appointment by speaking to the specialist or super-specialist physician or the director of the relevant department.
In case of emergency, the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha Secretariat or the MP’s staff can contact the duty officer, who will guide them to emergency services, it said.
