PGI Cardiology Chief Urges PMO, Health Ministry to Start Hospital OPDs at 7:30 AM
Chandigarh: In view of the intense heatwave, rising energy consumption and increasing pressure on hospitals, Dr. Yaspal Sharma, Head of the Cardiology Department at PGI Chandigarh, has written to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Union Health Ministry proposing that hospital OPD services across the country begin from 7:30 am.
Dr. Sharma said the move could help reduce heat exposure for patients and healthcare workers, cut electricity consumption and lower pollution levels. He suggested that OPD services should run from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm during the summer months.
According to the proposal, doctors and medical staff are more efficient during morning hours, while prolonged working hours in extreme heat lead to fatigue that can impact the quality of treatment.
The proposal claims that limiting routine services to the cooler part of the day could reduce hospital energy consumption by 15 to 20 per cent, especially by lowering the use of air-conditioners and other electrical systems during peak afternoon heat.
Dr. Sharma also stated that reduced electricity consumption could help bring down carbon dioxide and PM 2.5 emissions, potentially contributing to a decline in cases of hypertension, heart attacks, cancer and other serious illnesses linked to pollution.
The proposal further recommends strengthening telemedicine services and introducing a better appointment system to ease overcrowding in OPDs. However, emergency services should continue round the clock as usual.
Dr. Sharma has also shared the proposal with the Union Health Secretary, while copies have reportedly been marked to the Prime Minister and Union Health Minister.
