Kerala health minister admits to lapses after MCH department

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has ordered an investigation into allegations raised by Dr Haris Chirakkal, head of the urology department at Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital, a day after he publicly criticised the lethargy of senior officials in addressing critical shortcomings in patient care.

Describing Dr Haris as “honest and hardworking,” the minister on Sunday acknowledged that systemic lapses could have contributed to the delay in resolving issues. “This is a matter of the system, which includes more than just the government,” she said. “I have sought a comprehensive report on the matter.”

Speaking to reporters in Pathanamthitta, she noted that the cost of a probe used by the urology department had increased by `3,000, prompting the department to follow procedural steps to avoid audit objections. “However, such processes should not lead to undue delays. We will thoroughly examine Dr Haris’ concerns,” she added.