Key Rules for Construction and Establishment of Nursing Homes!

Rules Issued Under the Private Medical Care Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2002

Uravakonda: The government has stipulated strict rules for the establishment and operation of private hospitals and nursing homes in Andhra Pradesh. In particular, those who wish to set up a private hospital with a capacity of 25 beds must adhere to various laws regarding registration, infrastructure, staffing, and mandatory certificates. These rules fall under the purview of the Andhra Pradesh Allopathic Private Medical Care Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2002.

1. Licensing and Registration: DM&HO is Key

The District Medical and Health Officer (DM&HO) plays a vital role in the private hospital registration process.

 Application: The hospital management must apply to the DM&HO in the prescribed Form-I (in duplicate) for registration.

 Inspection: Within 10 days of receiving the application, a team of two doctors under the supervision of the DM&HO will inspect the hospital to confirm that all standards are met.

  No Violation of Bed Strength: The hospital must strictly operate within the bed strength for which it is registered. Even a single bed more than the registered capacity constitutes a violation of the Act, which may lead to the cancellation of registration.

  Operation: The hospital must commence its activities only after obtaining the Registration Certificate.

2. Mandatory Certifications to be Obtained

Two critical statutory certificates are essential for the operation of the hospital. If the validity of these certificates expires, immediate action may be taken.

 Certification | Requirement & Renewal 

 Fire Safety Certificate (NOC) | This must be mandatorily obtained from the Andhra Pradesh Fire Services Department, certifying that the hospital building conforms to the fire safety regulations. Renewal must be done before the expiry date. | 

Pollution Control Board (PCB) Consent | Must obtain Consent for Operation (CFO) from the Pollution Control Board and special Authorization for handling waste under the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules. Renewal application must be submitted at least 120 days before the expiry date. |

3. Minimum Infrastructure and Staffing Standards

A 25-bed hospital must comply with the following minimum standards:

  Staffing: There must be adequate qualified staff to provide 24-hour services.

   Doctors: Must possess registration numbers from the Medical Council of India (MCI) / Andhra Pradesh Medical Council (APMC).

    Nursing Staff: Must employ staff with registration from the Nursing Council of India.

    Para Medical Staff: Supporting staff like technicians and pharmacists must be kept.

  Essential Facilities: The hospital must have its own pharmacy, lab facilities, operation theatre, diagnostic facilities (including imaging), and an ambulance available for emergency services.

  Bio-Medical Waste: Must adhere to the Pollution Control Board rules for the management and disposal of bio-medical waste.

Adherence to these regulations by private hospitals is crucial for providing quality healthcare services to the public and maintaining safety standards.