Kulgam, Nov 1: Several unregistered clinical establishments and diagnostic laboratories were sealed or closed down, while heavy fines were imposed on violators during a joint inspection drive conducted by the Health Department and Drug Control Department across Kulgam district on Sunday.
The drive was carried out by a special team constituted under the supervision of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Kulgam, and the Drug Control Department to check compliance with statutory requirements governing clinical establishments, diagnostic laboratories and chemist shops.
The inspection team comprised the District Health Officer (DHO), Kulgam, the Drug Control Officer, Kulgam, and other officials from the CMO’s office.
During the inspections, several clinical establishments and diagnostic laboratories were found operating without valid registration under the Clinical Establishments Act. The authorities subsequently sealed or closed down the establishments and imposed fines under the relevant provisions of law.
The team also examined closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and computerised billing records at various establishments to identify discrepancies and verify compliance with prescribed regulatory norms.
Meanwhile, the Drug Control Department collected samples of medicines from different chemist shops for laboratory testing and analysis to ascertain whether the drugs met the prescribed quality standards.
The inspection team also issued directions to chemist shop owners to ensure that cash memos were provided against every sale of medicines. They were specifically instructed not to sell Schedule drugs without valid medical prescriptions, in accordance with the applicable regulations.
The Chief Medical Officer, Kulgam, said inspection drives would continue across the district to ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, maintain the quality of medical services and protect patients’ interests.
All clinical establishments, diagnostic centres and chemist shops have been directed to adhere strictly to the prescribed rules and regulations. The CMO warned that violations would invite legal action under the relevant provisions of law.
