PUNE: The
Maharashtra government on Tuesday extended the 80:20
Covid bed reservation policy till February 28.
The rule states that
private hospitals can admit
non-Covid patients as long as they have enough beds (80% of their capacity) set aside to treat those sickened by the virus.
State health officials said the policy was extended as part of preparedness measures during the winter months.
“The
state task force has warned of a
second wave. So, we have to be prepared,” an official had said on Monday.
An earlier proposal had sought extension of the policy till February 15.
State task force members said that collectors will now be asked to carry out resource assessments to ensure non-Covid patients get care.
Task force member Subhash Salunke said, “Emergency patients with other ailments should not be deprived of treatment while this policy is on. There are enough vacant beds,” he said.