Hyderabad: Notices issued to 224 unregistered clinics and hospitals

The Hyderabad district administration issued notices to 224 medical establishments found to be functioning without mandatory government registration, asking them to explain their non-compliance and warning of penalties and temporary closure if they fail to respond.

The notices were issued following a district-wide survey conducted using lists obtained from the Hyderabad Collectorate and further verification by Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and field-level health staff. “During the survey, officials segregated registered and unregistered establishments, identifying clinics and hospitals operating without valid registration under applicable regulations,” said a senior health official.

The exercise covered all categories of medical establishments, including allopathic hospitals, Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) centres, as well as dental clinics, physiotherapy centres and other healthcare facilities, regardless of size or type. The official clarified that the action was not limited to hospitals alone but extended to any clinical establishment functioning without formal registration.

After identifying the unregistered facilities, notices were routed through PHCs, which were tasked with serving them directly to the establishments and obtaining acknowledgements. In cases where owners or staff were unavailable, the notice was pasted on the premises, photographic evidence was taken and records were maintained. Responses from the establishments were also collected through this process.

“A standard proforma has been shared with the PHCs to facilitate compliance. Establishments have been given seven days to respond. If no reply is received within the stipulated period, a show-cause notice will be served to the establishment leading to a temporary closure until the registration of the medical establishment is complete,” the official added.

Action Health officials can take against erring establishments

The official also clarified that under existing provisions of the Clinical Establishment Act, health authorities do not have direct powers to seal or seize unregistered clinical establishments. Instead, monetary penalties can be imposed. For non-compliance, fines range up to ₹50,000, while a penalty of ₹30,000 can be levied in certain cases.

In contrast, registered hospitals found to be committing major violations or facing criminal cases can have their registration cancelled. Such cancellation effectively results in closure of the facility, following which the police are formally informed.