AIIMS Reverses Decision on Service Shutdown Amidst Ayodhya Event Controversy

New Delhi: In response to widespread criticism and concerns from the public, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi has revoked its earlier decision to temporarily close non-critical services until 2.30 pm tomorrow during the grand consecration event at the Ayodhya Ram Temple.

AIIMS, New Delhi, on Sunday, clarifies that all clinical services will remain open on 22nd January 2024 to provide seamless and uninterrupted patient care. 

The controversy erupted a day after AIIMS-Delhi initially announced a half-day break for staff in non-critical services. While the official communication did not explicitly address the availability of Out Patient Department (OPD) services, there were apprehensions that outdoor patients might face difficulties consulting specialists during the announced break.

A memorandum issued by Rajesh Kumar, AIIMS-Delhi’s administrative officer, had referenced the central government’s directive for a half-day break for government employees tomorrow. The memo stated, “It is notified for information of all the employees that the Institute will remain half day closed till 14.30 hrs on 22.01.2024,” but assured that “all critical clinical services” would remain operational.

The initial notification triggered significant public outcry, particularly as many patients endure long waiting periods—sometimes weeks or months—to secure appointments at the prestigious healthcare institution. Closing OPD services abruptly was seen as potentially causing great inconvenience, especially for those who had traveled from outside Delhi in search of accessible and high-quality healthcare at the state-run facility.

Responding to the backlash, AIIMS-Delhi issued a fresh notification this morning, clarifying that the OPD “shall remain open to attend to patients with appointments to prevent any inconvenience to them and facilitate patient care.”

Meanwhile, Safdarjung Hospital, another prominent healthcare facility in the national capital, has assured patients that OPD registration will occur between 8 am and 10 am, with all registered patients receiving necessary attention. Pharmacy services will be available until noon, but elective surgeries will not be conducted during this period.

The evolving situation at AIIMS has sparked discussions about the delicate balance between ceremonial events and the critical healthcare needs of the public, prompting healthcare institutions to reevaluate their decisions to ensure minimal disruption to patient care.