Panaji: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has asked state govt to provide dedicated ambulances for psychiatric emergencies and set up halfway homes for patients at the Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour (IPHB), Bambolim, who have no guardians to take them home.In a 12-point inspection report dated Sept 24, the commission also flagged concerns related to food allocation, kitchen facilities and staffing. A three-member panel, headed by Justice Bharat Deshpande, visited IPHB on Sept 9 when around 65 patients were admitted. It has sought an action-taken report from the govt by Nov 23.The commission found that the 108 ambulance service generally does not transport psychiatric patients. It recommended a dedicated psychiatric ambulance in every taluka, or at least one for every two to three talukas, with trained staff. Citing provisions of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, it urged the govt to expedite a pending proposal from IPHB.The panel also noted that some patients continue to stay at the hospital even after treatment because relatives do not collect them and no halfway homes are available. It rejected the use of cyclone shelters as an alternative, saying they must be vacated during emergencies.The panel found that patients are provided five meals a day under a budget of Rs 120 per person. IPHB officials told the commission that at least Rs 150 per patient is needed. The commission recommended an increase in the food budget along with periodic revisions linked to prices.It also sought installation of an exhaust fan in the kitchen storeroom and said an air-conditioned room cannot replace dedicated cold storage facilities.The report pointed out that condemned wheelchairs, beds and typewriters were lying amid overgrown vegetation in the hospital’s central area, posing hygiene and safety concerns. It recommended disposal of the discarded items and regular clearing of the area.With IPHB’s expansion expected to increase bed capacity from about 190 to 250, the commission called for advance planning for additional medical, nursing, paramedical, psychological and rehabilitation staff.The commission praised IPHB’s referral system with GMC, where attendants stay with patients, and also welcomed initiatives such as festival participation, dedicated children’s wards and twice-weekly child OPDs. It also recommended providing stalls at SARAS, Lokotsav and other festivals to showcase crafts made by patients.
