Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Makes Surprise Visit to Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital, Reviews Facilities
Patients highlight long waiting hours and overcrowding as chief minister orders immediate reforms in public healthcare services
NEW DELHI. Apr 24 : In a move aimed at strengthening public healthcare delivery, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta carried out an unannounced inspection at Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital on Thursday, taking stock of on ground conditions and interacting directly with patients and staff.
The visit covered multiple critical areas of the hospital, including the Outpatient Department (OPD), inpatient wards, pharmacy counters, sanitation facilities, water supply systems, and digital service infrastructure. The chief minister assessed how efficiently these units were functioning and whether they were meeting patient needs.
During her interaction with patients and their attendants, several concerns came to light. Elderly visitors, in particular, reported prolonged waiting times, stating they had been standing in queues since early morning without receiving medical attention. The feedback highlighted systemic inefficiencies affecting patient care and access.
The inspection further exposed significant operational gaps, including a shortage of available doctors during peak hours, overcrowding in the OPD, and shortcomings in the hospital’s online appointment and token management systems. These issues have reportedly been contributing to delays and confusion among patients seeking timely treatment.
Taking note of the complaints, the chief minister directed hospital authorities to implement immediate corrective measures. She emphasized the need for better staff deployment, streamlined digital processes, and improved patient management to reduce waiting times and enhance service delivery.
Officials accompanying the inspection were instructed to prepare a detailed report and ensure accountability at all levels. The chief minister also underlined the importance of maintaining hygiene standards and ensuring uninterrupted basic amenities such as clean water and sanitation facilities.
The surprise visit reflects the government’s increasing focus on monitoring healthcare institutions more closely and addressing gaps through direct intervention. Authorities indicated that similar inspections may be carried out at other hospitals across the capital to ensure consistent improvements in patient care.
