19 private hospitals in Mumbai agree to set up isolation wards

According to a late evening report by Business Standard, 19 top private hospitals in Mumbai have agreed to set up isolation wards for swine flu patients. Government health teams will be sent to these hospitals for inspection and once they give clearance, these hospitals can start admitting patients.

Update (12 Aug, 2009): The Times of India reports that 21 additional hospitals (19 private + 2 govt) showed their willingness to screen and treat patients. It will take a week for these hospitals to be operational.

These hospitals deserve kudos, especially when many hospitals in other parts of the country are reluctant to take on the responsibility.

Update (13 Aug, 2009): The Times of India reports that five teams in Mumbai have started the inspection of private hospitals. They will complete the inspection in a couple of days. These hospitals have offered a total of 174 beds.

Update (15 Aug, 2009): DNA reports that of the 19 private hospitals, 9 have been rejected by the government for failing to meet the norms, and 10 have been given the nod.