“Effect Of Legal And Regulatory Bodies On An Autonomy Of Medical Institute A Retrospective Study”

Abstract

Introduction
Healthcare in the State is unsatisfactory, with high out-of-pocket expenses raising serious concerns among residents. Private healthcare costs are exorbitant. The last census occurred in2011,  with the next postponed  until 2024; the current estimated population is around 4.06crores,  spanning 24 districts, four metropolitan cities.
Materials and Methods
 This retrospective study used publicly available data from the Institute’s website for the year2023.  We collected information about the Institute Act, regulations, and various regulatorybodies. The  frequency of statutory  meetings was noted to evaluate their effectiveness inmanaging the State's only tertiary care teaching institute. Additionally, data on outpatientvisits, inpatient admissions, and emergency center admissions were gathered from varioushospital sources.
Results
The Institute has eight regulatory bodies, with the Governing Body (GB) serving as the final  authority. Although the GB can convene in emergencies, the nature of these emergencies is  undefined, delaying decision implementation. The Institute has faced 148 encroachments on  its campus, including unauthorized residents in unfinished  buildings and broken boundary walls posing safety risks. Furthermore, only 50 to 60% of the necessary teaching staff are present, affecting clinical and academic functions.
Discussion 
According to the Institute Act of 2002 and regulations from 2014, the GB is required to meet regularly, ideally every three months. However, a 12-year delay in passing regulations after establishing autonomy has hindered the development of clear policies, negatively impacting the public health system.