In the realm of public spaces, few hold as much significance and importance as hospitals. Each day, countless individuals flock to these hallowed halls, seeking solace and healing. It is within these sacred walls that the sick are tended to, their ailments addressed with utmost care and compassion. In this pursuit of restoring health and well-being, it becomes imperative for hospitals to uphold a certain order and decorum.
At Shri B D Khimji Lifeline hospital, we understand the gravity of our role in the lives of those who seek refuge within our walls. We recognize the profound impact that a serene and harmonious environment can have on the recovery process. Thus, our rules and regulations have been meticulously crafted to ensure maximum patient comfort and optimum care.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each individual who chooses to abide by these guidelines, for it is through your cooperation that we are able to create an atmosphere conducive to healing. Together, let us embark on this journey towards wellness, united in our commitment to providing the highest standard of care.
OPD
Outpatient Department (OPD) Guidelines:
1. OPD registration must be completed exclusively at the main reception area. Please avoid overcrowding at the counter and limit one person per patient for the registration process.
2. Upon your first registration, a unique Medical Record (MR) number will be assigned to you. Kindly remember to mention this MR number during your subsequent visits. This number will be printed on all hospital documents related to your treatment.
3. The OPD registration charge remains valid for 30 days, allowing for three revisits at the prescribed charges. After this period, a full OPD charge will be applicable for re-consultation. Please note that these charges may change periodically, and the prevailing rule will apply.
4. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to complete any necessary paperwork and to ensure a smooth flow of patients.
5. It is important to bring all relevant medical records, test results, and medications to your appointment. This will assist the doctor in providing you with the best possible care.
6. If you are unable to keep your appointment, please inform the hospital at least 24 hours in advance. This will allow us to offer the appointment slot to another patient in need.
7. Please be respectful of the doctor’s time and limit your consultation to the allocated time. If you have multiple concerns or questions, prioritize them to ensure that all important matters are addressed.
8. Follow the prescribed treatment plan diligently and take medications as instructed. If you experience any side effects or have concerns about your treatment, inform your doctor immediately.
9. After your consultation, please proceed to the billing counter to settle any outstanding charges. It is important to clear your dues promptly to avoid any inconvenience during future visits.
10. Maintain a calm and peaceful environment in the waiting area. Refrain from engaging in loud conversations or disruptive behavior that may disturb other patients.
11. Respect the privacy and confidentiality of other patients. Avoid discussing personal medical information or sharing sensitive details in public areas.
12. In case of emergencies or urgent medical conditions, please inform the hospital staff immediately. They will provide the necessary assistance and ensure that you receive prompt medical attention.
We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines. By doing so, we can ensure a smooth and efficient OPD experience for all patients.
Casualty
1. Patients seeking routine outpatient visits should not go to the emergency department and should instead schedule an appointment with their primary care provider or visit a clinic.
2. Patients seen in the emergency department will be charged accordingly, regardless of any previous outpatient registrations.
3. Life-saving medications and supplies used in the emergency department should be promptly replaced without delay.
4. Patients should avoid overcrowding in the emergency department to ensure efficient functioning and prompt delivery of treatment.
5. Patients advised emergency admission must make the requested advances for payment as soon as possible, but no later than 6 hours after admission. Failure to do so will result in automatic cancellation of the admission. Credit card/debit card payment facilities can be used, with applicable transaction charges.
6. Medico-legal cases requiring police involvement will be promptly reported to the police, and this is not a matter of choice for either the treating doctor or the patient.
7. Medico-legal case charges will be applied when applicable.
8. The hospital will securely retain documents related to medico-legal cases for safekeeping and later submission to the court of law when required.
9. Patients are expected to adhere to the hospital’s policies and procedures during their stay.
10. The hospital reserves the right to refuse admission or treatment to any individual who poses a threat to the safety or well-being of staff or other patients.
11. Patients are responsible for providing accurate and complete information about their medical history, current medications, and any allergies or sensitivities.
12. Patients are expected to treat hospital staff, fellow patients, and visitors with respect and courtesy at all times.
General Rules and Guidelines:
1. Non-violence and Property Protection: It is strictly prohibited to engage in any form of violence against healthcare personnel or damage property within the healthcare facility, in accordance with THE KARNATAKA PROHIBITION OF VIOLENCE AGAINST MEDICARE SERVICE PERSONNEL AND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY IN MEDICARE SERVICE INSTITUTIONS ACT, 2009.
2. Admission Privileges: Only empanelled consultants and ‘in-house consultants’ are authorized to admit patients. Admission rights are reserved.
3. Signed Declaration: All patients or their primary caregivers/guardians must provide a signed declaration agreeing to comply with the hospital’s rules and regulations. Failure to do so will result in automatic cancellation of admission.
4. Documentation and Information:
a. Patients or their primary caregivers/guardians must complete a basic information data sheet upon admission, including patient and primary caregiver/guardian details.
b. The details entered in the hospital’s computer system are based on the information provided in the basic data sheet. The hospital is not responsible for any errors or discrepancies in the data sheet.
c. Changes to a patient’s details can only be made with a written application by the patient or primary caregiver/guardian, accompanied by a valid explanation and approval from the Administrator. Such changes will only be reflected in subsequently generated records, not in previously generated documents.
5. Administrative Queries: Any inquiries regarding administrative procedures, facilities, and charges should be directed to the relevant administrative staff, rather than the treating doctors. This allows doctors to focus on providing medical care to patients.
6. Availability of Administrative Staff: Lifeline ensures the availability of an adequate number of administrative staff during office hours to assist patients and attenders with any queries.
7. Patient Information Briefing: Upon admission, administrative staff will meet with patients to provide information about facilities, payment methods, and the hospital’s rules and regulations.
8. Room Inspection at Discharge: Administrative staff will conduct a thorough inspection of rooms at the time of discharge to ensure there are no damages to the property or appliances provided. Applicable charges will be levied for any damages found.
9. Maintenance of Peace and Quiet:
a. Maintaining a peaceful and quiet environment is mandatory within the hospital premises.
b. Speaking loudly and congregating in corridors is not permitted, as it can disrupt the hospital’s normal functioning.
c. Crowding in corridors and in front of doors is strictly prohibited.
d. Mobile phones should be set to silent mode in areas where signage indicates. Non-compliance will result in a penalty of ₹50/-.
10. Attender Policy: Only one attender is permitted to stay with the patient at night, either in the room or in the ward.
11. Additional Attender: If the treating doctors deem it necessary, one additional attender may be allowed to stay in the room with the patient. Approval from the management is required.
12. Penalty for Unauthorized Attenders: The presence of more than one attender at night without proper authorization will result in a penalty.
13. Daytime Attenders: Two attenders are allowed in the rooms (excluding general wards) during daytime hours.
14. Reporting Patient Condition: Attenders should promptly report any unusual observations about the patient’s condition to the in-charge nursing staff. This information is clinically relevant and aids in the patient’s management.
15. Prohibition of Tobacco and Tobacco Products: The use of tobacco and tobacco products is strictly prohibited within the hospital premises and is subject to penalty.
16. Alcohol Consumption: Consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited within the hospital premises and is subject to penalty. Patients may even be discharged from the hospital.
17. Vehicular Parking: Vehicles should only be parked in designated parking areas, ensuring they do not obstruct traffic, particularly ambulances and doctors’ vehicles.
18. Vehicle Responsibility: The hospital does not assume responsibility for any damage or loss to vehicles parked on the premises.
19. Valuables: Patients, attenders, and visitors are advised not to carry valuables to the hospital. If they choose to do so, the safekeeping of such articles is their responsibility.
20. Availability of Hot Water: Hot water is supplied to the rooms through a solar water heater and is available only during designated hours in the morning.
21. Solar Water Heater Breakdown: In the event of a breakdown of the solar water heater, the hospital will make alternate arrangements if feasible, but cannot guarantee the availability of hot water.
22. Water and Electricity Usage: No separate charges are levied for water and electricity, but wastage and indiscriminate use will result in a warning and penalty.
23. Television Usage: Televisions are provided in the rooms at no additional charge, but any damage to the TV or related equipment will be charged.
24. ICU Room Occupancy: Relatives of patients admitted to the ICU are generally not allocated rooms or beds. However, if they are already occupying a room prior to the patient’s transfer to the ICU, they may be allowed to continue staying with the approval of the Administrator. Full room and utility charges will apply.
25. Attender in ICU: An attender of a patient in the ICU may be allocated a room or bed if deemed necessary by the management. However, this allocation can be revoked if the need arises to accommodate another patient.
26. Rules for ICU Room Occupants: Relatives occupying rooms in the ICU must adhere to the rules governing visitors. Violations will be penalized.
27. Room/Bed Reservations: Rooms can be booked only one day in advance, and the management reserves the right to cancel the booking if accommodation is required for emergency admissions. Booked rooms are considered occupied, and normal charges apply.
28. Lift Usage: The lift (elevator) is intended for the transportation of patients and doctors. Visitors are kindly requested to cooperate and refrain from using the lift unnecessarily to prevent delays in patient care.
29. Discharge Process:
a. The discharge process involves billing and preparation of a discharge summary, which may take 2-3 hours. Patients and relatives are requested to exercise patience during this time.
b. Pressuring hospital staff for expedited discharge is discouraged. Prompt advance payments and compliance with hospital rules and regulations facilitate a speedy discharge.
c. The hospital is not responsible for discharge delays due to non-payment of bills. Discharge summary and other documents are provided after the settlement of final bills.
d. Discharges against medical advice (DAMA) and discharges upon request are only possible with a written request.
30. Birth Registration: Birth intimations are sent to the corporation for registration once a week. It is the responsibility of the patient/main caregiver/guardians to ensure accurate details are entered in the birth form provided by the corporation. The hospital is not responsible for any incorrect entries. Changes to registered details can only be made through an affidavit.
31. Outsourced Services: Services not available within the hospital are outsourced. While the hospital takes care in selecting the best service provider, it cannot be held responsible for any deficiencies in outsourced services.
32. Arrangements for Deceased Patients: In the event of a patient’s death, relatives should decide to transfer the body within 3 hours, as the hospital does not have cold storage facilities.
33. Collection of Death Certificate: Death intimations are sent to the corporation once a week for the issuance of the death certificate. It is the responsibility of the patient’s relatives to collect the death certificate from the corporation.
34. Feedback and Complaints: The hospital welcomes feedback and suggestions from patients and their relatives. Complaints can be registered at the hospital’s reception desk, and every effort will be made to address and resolve them in a timely manner.
35. Disruptive Behavior: Any form of disruptive behavior, including verbal abuse, physical aggression, or harassment towards hospital staff or other patients, will not be tolerated. Such behavior may result in immediate discharge and legal action.
36. Medical Records: Patients have the right to access their medical records upon request. A written application must be submitted to the hospital’s medical records department, and a nominal fee may be charged for providing copies of the records.
37. Privacy and Confidentiality: The hospital maintains strict confidentiality of patient information and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding privacy and data protection.
38. Insurance Claims: Patients with insurance coverage must provide all necessary documents and information to facilitate the insurance claim process. The hospital will assist in providing the required documentation, but the responsibility for claim submission lies with the patient.
39. Discharge Medications: Patients are responsible for purchasing and collecting their discharge medications from the hospital pharmacy. The hospital will provide a prescription and assist in procuring the medications, but the cost is not included in the hospital charges.
40. Follow-up Appointments: Patients are advised to schedule follow-up appointments with their treating doctors as recommended. The hospital will assist in scheduling appointments, but the responsibility for attending and following up lies with the patient.
41. Non-Discrimination: The hospital does not discriminate against any individual based on race, religion, gender, nationality, or any other protected characteristic. All patients are treated with equal respect and dignity.
42. Emergency Situations: In case of emergencies, patients and their attenders are requested to follow the instructions of the hospital staff and cooperate fully to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
43. Compliance with Laws and Regulations: Patients and their attenders are expected to comply with all applicable laws and regulations during their stay at the hospital. Any illegal activities or violations will be reported to the appropriate authorities.
44. Amendments to Guidelines: The hospital reserves the right to amend or modify these guidelines at any time without prior notice. Patients and their attenders are advised to regularly review the guidelines for any updates or changes.
45. Discretion of Management: The management of the hospital reserves the right to exercise discretion in exceptional circumstances and make decisions that are in the best interest of the patients, staff, and overall functioning of the hospital.
Casualties
1. All patients, visitors, and staff members must maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout the hospital premises.
2. Patients’ relatives and visitors must comply with the hospital’s cleanliness rules and regulations, ensuring cleanliness in rooms, wards, and common areas.
3. Chewing paan, tobacco, or spitting anywhere in the hospital premises is strictly prohibited and will result in penalties.
4. Littering and indiscriminate throwing of objects are strictly prohibited and will result in penalties.
5. Patients and their relatives are responsible for keeping their rooms and the surrounding areas clean. Belongings should be kept in designated places.
6. Footwear is not allowed inside the hospital. Visitors must leave their footwear outside in the provided shoe racks. The hospital will not be responsible for missing footwear.
7. Washing of clothes and utensils is not permitted in the bathrooms and sinks. Alternative arrangements should be made for such activities.
8. Waste materials, including leftover food, should be disposed of in the provided dustbins. Dropping waste in sinks and drains is strictly prohibited and will result in penalties.
9. Regular cleaning and disinfection of all hospital areas, including patient rooms, waiting areas, and restrooms, will be conducted by the hospital staff.
10. Hand hygiene is crucial. All individuals must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizers provided throughout the hospital.
11. Proper waste management protocols should be followed, including the segregation of different types of waste and their disposal in designated bins.
12. Hospital staff should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling patients or potentially infectious materials.
13. Regular cleaning and disinfection of medical equipment, surfaces, and high-touch areas should be carried out to prevent the spread of infections.
14. Adequate ventilation and air filtration systems should be maintained to ensure clean and fresh air circulation within the hospital premises.
15. Regular training and awareness programs should be conducted for staff, patients, and visitors to promote cleanliness and infection control practices.
Doctors and Consultants
Doctors and Consultants:
1. Visiting consultants adhere to a flexible schedule based on the demands of the situation and their other professional commitments, such as emergencies in other hospitals, surgeries, and outpatient clinics. Therefore, patient attenders are kindly requested to refrain from repeatedly inquiring about the consultants’ visit timings with the staff or reception, as this information may not be readily available.
2. It is important for patients and their attenders to understand that all in-house clinical emergencies are efficiently managed by the duty staff, which includes intensivists (anaesthesiologists), duty doctors, nursing staff, and substaff. These professionals work in consultation with the visiting consultants. Therefore, it is not necessary to demand immediate availability of the visiting consultants in such situations.
3. Lifeline Hospital has implemented a highly effective emergency management system, which includes experienced intensivists who serve as team leaders and a well-trained staff to support them. However, the occurrence of multiple emergency situations simultaneously may put a strain on the system. Therefore, patients and attenders are kindly requested to exhibit cooperative and understanding behavior, and to assist the situation by demonstrating patience.
4. The hospital values the expertise and commitment of the visiting consultants, who prioritize patient care and safety. Their availability is subject to their professional obligations and the needs of the hospital. Therefore, it is important for patients and attenders to trust in the hospital’s emergency management system and the capabilities of the duty staff.
5. In emergency situations, the duty staff is trained to provide immediate and appropriate medical care. They follow established protocols and guidelines to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. The visiting consultants are involved as needed, based on the severity and complexity of the case.
6. Lifeline Hospital maintains open lines of communication between the duty staff and the visiting consultants. They collaborate closely to ensure continuity of care and to address any specific concerns or requirements of the patients.
7. The hospital encourages patients and attenders to maintain a respectful and cooperative attitude towards the medical staff. This fosters a positive and conducive environment for effective emergency management and overall patient care.
8. In case of any urgent or critical situations, the duty staff is trained to escalate the matter to the visiting consultants promptly. The hospital has established communication channels and protocols to ensure timely and appropriate involvement of the consultants when necessary.
9. Lifeline Hospital is committed to providing the highest standard of medical care to all patients. The visiting consultants are an integral part of this commitment, and their expertise and guidance greatly contribute to the quality of care delivered.
10. The hospital appreciates the understanding and cooperation of patients and attenders in adhering to the above guidelines. By working together, we can ensure a smooth and efficient emergency management system, resulting in the best possible outcomes for all patients.
Lab and Pharmacy Protocols
Lab and Pharmacy:
The hospital provides an in-house Clinical Laboratory for the convenience of patients.
2. The laboratory operates throughout the day, although certain tests may not be available during odd hours and holidays. In such cases, these tests will be scheduled for the immediate next day.
3. To ensure reliable results, the laboratory maintains internal quality control systems and conducts third-party quality checks when necessary.
4. Test results from the laboratory are primarily reported electronically in the form of soft copies. Hard copies are only provided in exceptional circumstances and may incur additional charges.
5. Patients have the option to choose any laboratory of their preference for their tests. However, in such cases, they are responsible for the transportation of samples and specimens and obtaining the reports. The treating team of doctors at the hospital assumes the reliability of these reports but cannot be held responsible for any unfavourable outcomes or consequences.
6. The hospital also offers an in-house Pharmacy for the convenience of patients.
7. The Pharmacy operates throughout the day.
8. Medicines are prescribed using generic names, except in cases where unique combinations of multiple drugs require the use of brand names for clarity. Mention of brand names alongside generic names is for illustrative purposes only and not obligatory.
9. While efforts are made to stock a wide range of medicines, it may not be possible to have all medications available, especially during odd hours and holidays. The Pharmacy will make an effort to procure such medicines as soon as possible, but this cannot be guaranteed.
10. Patients have the freedom to purchase medicines from any vendor or source of their choice. However, the hospital reserves the right to refuse the use of medicines and consumables if they are deemed of poor quality or procured illegally (e.g., medicines and consumables meant for government supply only).
11. The hospital advises its patrons to exercise caution and diligence when procuring medicines and consumables, as the market is flooded with sub-standard products. It is recommended to ensure that the products are of reasonably good quality and proven efficacy.
12. The hospital cannot be held responsible if medicines and consumables do not produce the desired results, as the efficacy of these products is guaranteed by the manufacturers and not by the hospital.
Counselling
Counselling at the hospital is an essential part of patient care.
It aims to inform patients and their main relatives/guardians about the clinical condition and proposed line of management.
Counselling is conducted by consultants or designated counsellors.
For ward patients, routine counselling is done during consultants’ or intensivists’ ward rounds.
It is recommended to have the patient’s main caregiver or guardian present during these rounds.
Relatives of ICU patients are counselled separately in a designated counselling room.
Counselling in the ICU is conducted by intensivists or consultants, or both, as necessary.
The main caregiver or guardian should be present during these sessions, with a maximum of four attendees.
The timing of counselling sessions for ICU patients’ relatives may vary, as they are scheduled based on the availability of intensivists.
The hospital will try to inform relatives of the possible timing of counselling sessions in advance, but it may not always be possible to adhere strictly to the designated times.
The duration and timing of counselling sessions are determined by the consultants and intensivists, based on the individual patient’s needs.
Additional counselling meetings may be requested by patients and relatives, following the general rules of counselling sessions.
Additional counselling sessions may attract additional charges.
Counselling meetings may be video recorded for documentation purposes, with consent obtained from the patient or guardian at the time of admission.
Seeking treatment on an OPD basis is considered as deemed consent for video recording of any counselling done during OPD visits.
Relatives are advised to ensure the main caregiver or guardian is present during the first counselling session and all subsequent sessions.
Effective communication and patient-centered care are prioritized at the hospital, with counselling sessions aiming to provide clear and comprehensive information to patients and their relatives.
Visitors
Visitors
1. To facilitate the recovery process and provide a conducive environment for patients, it is important for relatives and well-wishers to limit unnecessary visits. However, we understand the significance of emotional support and connection, and therefore have established specific visiting hours for patients in wards and rooms.
2. Visitors are permitted to visit patients during designated visiting hours, which are prominently displayed at the reception area and subject to potential adjustments based on circumstances. Please note that these visiting hours do not apply to patients in the ICU.
3. The visiting hours for patients in wards and rooms are from 10 am to 11 am and 5 pm to 7 pm.
4. To ensure a comfortable environment for all patients, the number of visitors allowed per patient should not exceed four for rooms and two for wards during the designated visiting hours.
5. The management reserves the right to regulate entry to the hospital and may cancel visiting hours for individual patients or all patients if deemed necessary in the best interest of the patients and/or the hospital.
6. Visitors are expected to comply with the hospital’s rules and regulations and contribute to maintaining a peaceful and calm atmosphere within the hospital premises. It is the responsibility of the main caregiver or guardian, as well as the patient, to ensure adherence to these guidelines.
7. Any violations of the hospital’s rules and regulations by a patient’s visitors will be considered a violation by the patient themselves, and any penalties or consequences will be imposed accordingly.
8. As mobile phones can disrupt patients and medical equipment; visitors are required to keep their phones on silent or vibration mode in hospital corridors and wards.
9. Visitors to ICU patients must adhere to specific guidelines:
a. Entry into the ICU is strictly prohibited for visitors.
b. The main caregiver or guardian, or a representative thereof, may be granted brief access to the ICU if deemed necessary by the consultant, intensivist, or senior staff overseeing the patient’s care.
To gain entry into the ICU, the individual must:
i. Maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness.
ii. Wear clean attire.
iii. Be free from any infections, such as cough, cold, fever, or eye or skin infections.
iv. Wear the appropriate attire, cap, and mask provided specifically for ICU entry.
v. Refrain from wearing outdoor footwear.
vi. Refrain from carrying mobile phones. Please note that mobile phones, even in silent mode, are not permitted within the ICU.
These guidelines are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and to uphold a sterile and controlled environment within the ICU.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these protocols. By following these guidelines, we can establish a safe and comfortable environment for all patients and visitors at our hospital.
Charges and Payments:
1. All payments must be made exclusively at the designated cash counter. Under no circumstances should any payment be made to hospital staff, except at the cash counter.
2. Prompt payment of daily advance payments, as requested by the office, is mandatory.
3. The responsibility for making these payments lies with the main caregiver/guardian.
4. A declaration must be signed by the main caregiver/guardian/patient, affirming their commitment to timely payment of advances and final payments upon admission.
5. Payments made through non-cash modes (e.g., cheque payment, scheduled internet banking payment, digital payment, etc.) are subject to realization, and any receipts issued in such cases are provisional.
6. The management cannot be held responsible for any treatment or procedure delays caused by delays in advance payments.
7. Requests for discounts will not be entertained for patients staying in special rooms and above.
8. Offers and discounts on packages, if available, are solely at the discretion of the management and are non-negotiable.
9. Discount requests may be considered in deserving cases (as determined by the management) and are applicable only to general ward patients.
10. All package rates are applicable to general ward accommodation, unless otherwise specified.
11. Upgrading from a lower class of accommodation to a higher class will result in retrospective application of charges applicable to the higher class.
12. The hospital provides medicines and consumables on an emergency “replacement” basis only. Therefore, regular medicines must be purchased by the relatives as needed.
13. The pharmacy may supply medicines against a deposit, which will cease once the deposit is exhausted.
14. The hospital reserves the right to refuse the use of substandard medicines and consumables.
15. Disposable bed sheets and covers are utilized for patients requiring frequent sheet changes and will be charged accordingly.
16. Certificates and documents:
a. Completion of insurance/reimbursement forms is carried out solely upon written request and may take up to 4 working days.
b. Wound certificates are issued exclusively upon request from authorized entities.
c. Copies of case papers can be provided upon written request by the patient/main caregiver/guardian or appropriate insurance/legal authorities, with charges applicable for the consumed stationary.
d. Issuing medical certificates, letters, and completing insurance/reimbursement forms may incur additional charges.
Insurance / Claims:
1. Reimbursement:
a. Reimbursement forms and documents will only be filled if submitted through the proper channel with a proper application.
b. Requests for filling reimbursement forms will not be entertained if there are any pending bills against the patient.
c. Filling of reimbursement forms takes more than 48 hours as medical records need to be studied and proper data entered.
d. The management reserves the right to charge a fee for filling insurance/claim forms and may levy it as necessary.
2. Cashless Insurance:
a. Elective Admission:
i. Lifeline 24X7 has tie-ups with several insurance companies and TPAs (third-party administrators). Information about these tie-ups will be available at the PCC/front desk.
ii. Cashless admission is only possible with companies that have a tie-up with Lifeline 24X7 for providing this facility.
iii. Necessary documents requested by the insurance coordinator must be submitted as soon as possible. Failure to provide all the documents within the given time will result in the cancellation of insurance.
iv. Every cashless admission requires approval from the concerned insurance company or TPA, which may take 24 hours or more. The time taken for approval is dependent on the TPA or insurance company. Lifeline is not responsible for any delays in approval.
v. Lifeline tries to obtain approval as quickly as possible and cannot be held responsible for any delays in the approval process.
vi. The decision of the insurance company is final in the approval process, including matters of co-payments and payment limits. Requests for revision of these decisions will not be entertained.
vii. The hospital may refuse to treat the patient under cashless admission if the amount approved by the insurance company is unreasonably low.
viii. Final approval is mandatory at the time of discharge. The management is not responsible for any delays in discharge due to a delay in final approval. Patients cannot be discharged until the final approval copy is received by the hospital. If the patient wishes to be discharged before final insurance approval, they must pay the complete bill amount and then get discharged.
b. Emergency Admission:
i. Insurance documents should be provided within 6 hours of admission to request cashless treatment.
ii. A deposit, as per hospital rules, must be made until approval is obtained. This deposit will be refunded upon approval or adjusted towards co-payment, if applicable.
COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS) Safety Protocols:
1. Personal Safety Measures:
a. All individuals entering the hospital premises are required to strictly adhere to the safety protocols recommended by health authorities and the administration. This includes wearing a properly fitted protective mask, practicing frequent hand hygiene, and maintaining a minimum physical distance of 2 meters.
b. It is imperative to refrain from unnecessary contact or touching of surfaces, instruments, furniture, etc.
2. Safety Obligations towards Others:
a. Strict compliance with the following guidelines is mandatory. Any violation will be considered a grave breach of protocol, resulting in immediate discharge of the patient.
b. The proper and continuous wearing of a face mask is mandatory within the hospital premises. The mask must be worn correctly, covering both the nose and mouth, without any removal or adjustment.
c. Spitting in any area of the premises is strictly prohibited.
d. The consumption of paan, guthka, beetle nut, or any similar substances is strictly prohibited.
e. Standing and engaging in conversations in the corridors is not permitted.
f. Only one designated attendant is allowed to be with the patient. The second attendant may only relieve the first attendant. If more than the authorized number of attendants/relatives arrive at the hospital, the patient will be immediately discharged, and no exceptions will be made.
g. The designated attendant must strictly remain within the assigned room and refrain from unnecessary movement outside.
h. Speaking loudly on mobile phones in the corridors is prohibited.
i. If a patient tests positive for COVID-19, the hospital will take necessary actions as advised by health authorities and district administration. Compliance with these measures is mandatory.
3. Charges and Expenses:
The hospital incurs additional costs due to the implementation of safety measures for the well-being of patients and the general public. These costs include the procurement and utilization of appropriate personal protective equipment and consumables, which will be reflected in the patient’s bill.
4. Consultants and Availability:
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has placed an unprecedented strain on the entire healthcare system. Consequently, the availability of healthcare professionals, including doctors, may be subject to unpredictable fluctuations. The hospital cannot be held liable for circumstances beyond the control of the management, such as a shortage of healthcare personnel or the unavailability of specific consultants.
Definitions:
1. Patient: A person seeking medical treatment, either as an outpatient or an inpatient, at Shri B D Khimji Lifeline Hospital.
2. Main Caretaker/Guardian: The individual responsible for making decisions on behalf of the patient and bearing the treatment expenses. They are also responsible for ensuring that advances are paid and bills are settled.
3. Counselling: The process of informing and discussing the patient’s clinical condition and proposed line of management with the treating doctor(s). It involves planning the treatment and may involve the main caretaker/guardian as well.
4. Consent: Implied or written permission given by the patient to undergo examinations, tests, documentation of data, and medical or surgical treatment. If the patient is unable to give consent, the main caretaker/guardian or a responsible appointee may provide consent on their behalf. For more information, please visit [insert website link].
5. Hospital: Shri B D Khimji Lifeline Hospital.
6. Blood Bank: Lifeline 24×7 Blood Bank, located within Shri B D Khimji Lifeline Hospital.
7. Pharmacy: Shri B D Khimji Lifeline Hospital Pharmacy, where medications and pharmaceutical products are dispensed.
8. Laboratory or Lab: Shri B D Khimji Lifeline Hospital Laboratory, where diagnostic tests and investigations are conducted.
9. HCW (Health Care Worker): Refers to the healthcare professionals and staff working at Shri B D Khimji Lifeline Hospital.
Note:
The hospital reserves the right to add, delete, or modify the rules and regulations at any time without prior notice.
In case of any discrepancies between versions of this document in different languages, the web version of the Lifeline Hospital Rules and Regulations will be considered the correct version.
