New Delhi, April 25: The Supreme Court has instructed all states and union territories to take action within a specified timeframe to implement minimum standards for Intensive Care Units (ICUs) across the country. This directive emphasizes the need for trained personnel, standardized protocols, and technology-based access to emergency care.
In its order, a bench comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice R. Mahadevan noted that a consensus-based ‘basic document’ outlining guidelines for the organization and distribution of ICU services has been prepared and shared with all states and union territories.
The Supreme Court expressed satisfaction, stating, “We are pleased to inform that the work envisaged in this proceeding has reached a significant stage.” The court further remarked that these guidelines are “practical, implementable, and essential as minimum standards for an ICU.”
During the hearing, several leading medical experts from prominent institutions such as AIIMS, Tata Memorial Centre, Medanta, and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital assisted the Supreme Court by suggesting measures to improve ICU infrastructure and distribution systems.
Acknowledging these suggestions, the bench led by Justice Amanullah stated that they are “extremely practical and should be duly considered,” particularly those related to setting timelines, training specialized personnel, and preparing standard operating procedures (SOPs) as checklists. Emphasizing the importance of technological intervention, the Supreme Court stressed the need for a ‘real-time’ hospital access system.
The court stated, “Most importantly, a GPS-based hospital locator should be developed, enabling the public to identify the nearest medical facility and available services based on the nature of the case and the patient’s condition.”
As an immediate step, the Supreme Court directed that the heads of health departments in all states and union territories convene meetings within a week to prepare a ‘realistic and practical’ action plan for implementing the ICU guidelines.
The bench, presided over by Justice Amanullah, remarked, “According to the court, the challenge lies in determining what is absolutely necessary and essential.” The bench instructed officials to identify and prioritize five basic requirements related to manpower and equipment/logistics in the initial phase.
The court further mandated that this process must include a clear implementation methodology and a mechanism for compliance and monitoring. Reports prepared at the state/union territory level will be sent to the central health ministry, which will coordinate a joint meeting of all stakeholders to prepare a shared national blueprint. The Supreme Court ordered, “This entire process… should be completed within three weeks from today.” The next hearing in this matter is scheduled for May 18.
In a significant observation, the Supreme Court highlighted the importance of nursing staff in ICU care, stating that they are with patients ‘day and night.’ Describing this suggestion as ‘not only practical but also necessary,’ the Supreme Court included the Indian Nursing Council and the Paramedical Council of India as parties to this proceeding.
The court directed these newly included bodies to present a plan detailing how training, courses, and curricula will be enhanced to ensure that healthcare workers are capable of effectively managing ICU conditions.
To facilitate implementation, the Supreme Court instructed the central health ministry to formally issue these guidelines as an advisory to all states and union territories and to upload them, along with subsequent reports, on its official website.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
