S 24-Parganas to have Quick Response Teams in every block hospital

Kolkata: Pushing for significant steps to fight the Coronavirus crisis in the state, the South 24-Parganas administration formed Quick Response Teams (QRT) in every block hospital on Saturday. The decision comes five days after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced setting up of dedicated nodal hospitals for COVID-19 cases in each of the 22 districts.

"We have formed two QRTs in every block hospital to tackle emergent COVID-19 cases. The QRT consists of one health official, Civil Defence, attendant and ambulance driver. They have been trained in handling COVID-19 positive cases and have been provided with PPE materials like masks, gloves, dress and thermal guns. This apart, we have already started counselling sessions to reduce anxiety and stress related to COVID-19 outbreak," said Dr P Ulaganathan, District Magistrate of South 24-Parganas.

The QRTs, connected through the district and sub-divisional control rooms, are being monitored by the Block Medical Officer. "It is observed that many of the ambulance drivers are not interested in shifting COVID-19 patients. Hence, we have formed QRTs to handle it professionally," pointed out Ulaganathan.

Banerjee, while addressing the media at Nabanna on Friday, had instructed the district authorities to ensure accommodation facilities for doctors and health workers in hotels or guest houses in close proximity to the hospitals. She had also directed all officials to be alert as the coming next two weeks will be very sensitive.

The Mamata Banerjee government has increased the life insurance coverage to Rs 10 lakh for all those who are fighting to save lives.