The chief of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued an order mandating the physical triaging of covid patients in Bangalore. This is compulsory due to the spike in cases. Read to know what this means.
The COVID-19 situation in Bengaluru
The city is reporting about 400 to 600 new cases every day for the last few days. Additionally, Karnataka reported 1,875 new coronavirus cases and 25 deaths on August 1 alone. Hence, following this the Karanata government has made it mandatory for patients to undergo physical triaging. The order was issued following the advice of a committee of experts. “It is mandatory to take up a triage of all COVID-19 cases with clinical assessment. The expert committee has opined that early physical triage helps in reducing morbidity and mortality,” stated the order.
What is physical triaging?
Physical triaging is a thorough assessment of people who test positive for COVID-19 by physicians. They will then recommend the patient for home isolation or hospitalization. This system was first introduced during the second wave by the BBMP. After all, this system helped the BBMP and the Government of Karnataka during the second wave. This helps in managing hospital bed and oxygen shortages along with the better allocation of resources.
Additionally, patients who refuse the triaging will face disciplinary action. “No COVID-19 positive patient can deny physical triage either at the center or by mobile units. If any individual or organization is found violating the guideline, action will be initiated under the Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Ordinance, 2020 and Disaster Management Act of 2005,” states BBMP’s order.
How will they carry out triaging?
Several physical triage centers (PTC) are getting ready to make it easy and a smooth sail. Additionally, mobile triage units (MTU) will be available at primary health care centers. Hence, when a person tests positive for COVID-19 they have to go to their closest PTC or MTU. They then need to follow the physician’s directions. So, if one requires a hospital bed, physical triaging is the only way to access it.