Pimpri-Chinchwad: PCMC Issues Warning To 650 Private Hospitals Over Demand For Advance Deposits

Pimpri, 10th April 2025: Following an incident at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital where a pregnant woman allegedly died after denied treatment due to lack of funds, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has issued notices to 650 private hospitals in the city, warning them against demanding such deposits from patients.

The civic body has circulated an official directive to all registered hospitals, clearly stating that no medical facility should demand an advance payment—especially in emergency or critical situations. The notice emphasizes that hospitals must prioritize immediate treatment for patients, regardless of payment status.

According to PCMC’s medical officer, Dr. Laxman Gophane, all private hospitals operate under licenses granted through the Bombay Nursing Homes Registration Act. Under this act, strict action can be taken against institutions that violate patient care norms. Penalties may include issuance of notices, demands for explanation, enforcement of corrective orders, and financial fines. In cases of repeated violations, the hospital’s license may be revoked.

“Emergency treatment must not be withheld under any circumstance due to non-payment,” Dr. Gophane stated. “Hospitals that continue to flout these rules will face severe consequences, including license cancellation.”