BENGALURU, 28 MARCH

Patients from economically disadvantaged backgrounds undergoing medical investigations at the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO) will now be admitted to hospital wards while awaiting their final test results, following a directive from Medical Education and Skill Development Minister Dr Sharan Prakash Patil.

During a recent visit to KMIO, Dr Patil raised concerns over the hospital's bed occupancy, which remained below 70 per cent despite high patient volumes. Officials explained that beds were assigned only after a final diagnosis, leading to delays for many patients. In light of this, the minister ordered a policy change to allow interim admissions.

Dr Patil highlighted the challenges faced by patients travelling from remote areas of Karnataka, particularly those from the north, stating that affording private accommodation in Bengaluru is often unfeasible. Although KMIO offers free accommodation and meals, he emphasised that ward admissions should take precedence. Additionally, he directed the transformation of Shantidhama and Aniketana wards into general wards, as over 90 per cent of KMIO's patients belong to the Below Poverty Line category.