Chennai: The December 2015 deluge continues to haunt Chennaiites. It was evident from the panic that prevailed after the announcement of cyclone Nada on Wednesday. Government and private hospitals joined in to ensure that they are prepared to help if and when required. Following the announcement, the hospitals called for urgent meetings with heads to discuss availability of required facilities.
“We discussed the need to ensure that drainage chambers and the pathway to them are kept clean. The staff was instructed to ensure that there is no water logging on the terraces,” said Dr Ponnambala Namasivayam, dean, Stanley Medical College and Hospital. “The medical stores officer was instructed to keep all medicines ready and we also asked drug supplier to be ready with drugs if necessary. The casualty ward was alerted to receive non-casualty cases as well. We also received communication from the health secretary to keep all these things ready,” he added.
Kilpauk Medical College and Hospital (KMC) held a meeting wherein a circular was issued on the necessary preparations in case of a calamity. “We have asked for a stock up of medicines, bandages, dressing material and sutures, which we have packed in boxes in case we need to go to the patients,” said Dr Narayana Babu, dean, KMC. Some hospitals, like the Fortis Malar Hospital said they are always prepared. “We are prepared for anything. We have all the required equipment, our ambulance and emergency services are always open,” said a source.
The 108 Ambulance service too ensured it was prepared in case of a calamity. “All coastal areas or coastal district ambulances were kept on high alert with close coordination from the respective district administration. We are completely prepared. We have ensured we have sufficient back up in terms of our headquarters, the emergency response centre, staffing, medicines and food so that no kind of disruption happens at any point of time. Whatever needs to be in place is so,” said Prabhudoss B., head, marketing and hospital relations, GVK EMRI, which operates the 108 helpline.
