Hospital Management Committee
The Hospital Management Committee (HMC) is one of the most important committees functioning in the Gram Panchayats of Kerala Local Self Government Department for the smooth functioning and infrastructure development of government hospitals, especially:
- Family Health Centres (FHCs)
- Primary Health Centres (PHCs)
The HMC plays a major role in ensuring people’s participation in the health sector and in taking quick decisions regarding the urgent needs of hospitals.
1. Structure of the HMC
The Hospital Management Committee is formed with broad representation at the Panchayat level.
- Chairman: President of the Gram Panchayat
- Secretary & Convenor: Medical Officer of the hospital
Members
- Chairperson of the Health & Education Standing Committee — Vice Chairman
- Chairperson of the Welfare Standing Committee
- Ward Member of the ward where the hospital is situated
- Two public representatives nominated by the Local Self Government Institution
(at least one must be a woman) - Panchayat Secretary
- CDS Member Secretary
- CDS Society President
- Block Panchayat and District Panchayat members representing the Panchayat area
- Representatives of various political parties / public representatives
- Health Inspector (HI / PRO)
- Medical Officer of the Homoeo Dispensary
- Medical Officer of the Ayurveda Dispensary
- Home Care Nurse
- Two trained volunteers from the Home Care Team
- MLSP (Mid-Level Service Provider) Nurses of people-centered health centres
2. Major Responsibilities and Powers
Hospital Development and Maintenance
Ensure proper maintenance and improvement of:
- Hospital buildings
- Seating facilities for patients
- Drinking water facilities
- Clean toilets and sanitation
Appointment of Temporary Staff
When there is a shortage of staff such as:
- Sweepers
- Security staff
- Temporary nurses
- Lab technicians
the HMC can use HMC funds to appoint temporary personnel so that patient care is not affected.
Supervision of Laboratory and Pharmacy Services
Monitor:
- Functioning of laboratories
- Availability of medicines
- Proper operation of systems such as Karunya Pharmacy
Fund Management
Income collected through:
- OP ticket charges
- Laboratory fees
- Donations and other contributions
is maintained as the HMC Fund. The Chairman and Medical Officer are authorized to use this fund for urgent hospital needs.
Complaint Redressal
HMC meetings provide a platform for discussing and resolving public complaints related to:
- Hospital services
- Behaviour of hospital staff
- Administrative issues within the hospital